Protect Your Hearing from the Buzz of the 2024 Cicada Hatch

May 13, 2024

As the warmth of summer approaches, so does the cacophony of buzzing cicadas. This year, however, their symphony promises to be louder than ever as two broods emerge simultaneously, creating a chorus that will be hard to ignore. From the southeastern states to the midwestern regions, the buzzing of cicadas is set to dominate outdoor spaces like never before.

Potential Risk to Auditory Health – Hearing Loss 

While the awe-inspiring spectacle of these winged creatures emerging from their underground slumber captures our attention, it’s crucial to recognize the potential risk they pose to our auditory health. Journalists and citizens armed with sound level meters or smartphone apps reported noise levels ranging from 90 – 100 decibels (dB). These levels are well above the 85 dB, which is the basis of the NIOSH Recommended Exposure Limit (REL) for noise, leading to faulty conclusions.

Misinformation has spread, with some articles likening the sound of cicadas to a jet plane at take-off or a concert, and even suggesting that exposure to cicada buzzing could lead to noise-related hearing loss in as little as 15 minutes.

 

Protecting Your Hearing with dB Blockers®

Y Vented -

While the buzzing of cicadas can reach high levels, it’s not necessarily harmful in short bursts. What matters is prolonged exposure to loud sounds. That’s where products like dB Blockers® come into play. By wearing custom ear protection like dB Blockers®, individuals can enjoy the spectacle of the cicada hatch while safeguarding their hearing from potential damage.

One traveller shared their experience of encountering the Double Brood in Macon, Georgia, where the hum of cicadas filled the air. With a sound meter app registering around 72 dB, they highlighted the importance of protecting one’s ears in such environments. In popular culture, the sound of cicadas has been used to create atmospheric scenes in films set in the Southern United States.

Conclusion:

As the cicadas emerge and go about their brief but intense cycle of life, it’s a reminder of the delicate balance of nature and the resilience of life. While we marvel at their spectacle, let’s not forget to protect ourselves, including our hearing, so that we can continue to enjoy the sounds of summer for years to come. So, as the cicadas awaken and fill the air with their symphony, remember to get your hearing protection ready.

Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a curious observer, or simply someone trying to enjoy the outdoors, safeguarding your ears is key to making the most of this unique experience. And as for moving down to cicada country? Well, that’s entirely up to you. But wherever you are, let’s keep our ears safe and enjoy the buzz of nature’s symphony.

 

 

🔊👂 Sound Science 101: Exploring the World of Decibels and NRR Ratings! 🎧

November 29, 2023

Sound is an integral part of our lives, and understanding how we measure it is crucial for our well-being. Let’s dive into the fascinating realm of decibels (dB) and Noise Reduction Ratings (NRR), uncovering how these measurements play a vital role in different aspects of our daily experiences.

NRR Sound

🔹 Decibels (dB):

  • Sound Level: Picture the serene ambiance of a library at 30 dB and contrast it with the booming energy of a rock concert hitting 110 dB. Decibels quantify sound intensity, offering us a scale to gauge the sonic landscapes around us.
  • Hearing Protection: In noisy workplaces, earmuffs equipped with a 25 dB noise reduction act as silent guardians, transforming a clamorous environment into a safe haven shielded by auditory armor. 🛡️

🔹 Noise Reduction Rating (NRR):

  • Earmuffs & Earplugs: Have you ever spotted those NRR ratings? Whether it’s earmuffs boasting an NRR of 28 dB or foam earplugs and personal hearing protectors with an NRR of 32 dB, these become your trusted allies in the realm of silence. 🎧
  • Occupational Safety: The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) sets the safety benchmark at 90 dB over an 8-hour workday, ensuring workplaces remain conducive to well-being.

🔹 Hearing Damage:

  • Beware! Prolonged exposure to sounds surpassing 85 dB can result in permanent hearing damage. Protecting those precious ears becomes paramount!

🔹 Music & Entertainment:

  • Ever wondered how concert sound systems achieve that immersive experience? Sound engineers meticulously measure and control sound levels in decibels, letting you feel the music at an electrifying 120 dB. 🎵

These examples underscore the pivotal role of decibels and NRR ratings in comprehending and safeguarding our hearing in diverse scenarios. If you’re curious to explore more about Noise Reduction Ratings (NRR) and how they can be estimated, check out this insightful resource: NRR Estimation Systems

Stay tuned for a symphony of sound wisdom!


#SoundScience #NoiseReduction #ProtectYourEars #CustomProtectEar #ProtectEar #dBBlockers #NRR

Safety and Maintenance in the Automotive Industry

March 23, 2023

Workers in the automotive industry are exposed to various hazards such as noise, chemicals, sharp objects, and heat. Wearing appropriate protective gear and protection can help prevent injuries and ensure their safety.

One example of such protection is dB Blocker hearing protection.

There are several types of noise associated with the Automotive Industry such as impulsive noise, continuous noise, intermittent noise and low-frequency noise. Long-term exposure to all of these can result in permanent damage to the human ear.

CPE’s dB Blockers allow interpersonal and radio communication to be clearly exchanged while keeping your workers protected. Protect your shop workers today.

Contact us to get your shop fitted

hearing in the Automotive Industry

#automativeindustry #noise #workinnoise #hearingsafety #protectear #safety #communication

Choosing the RIGHT hearing protection for Machinists, Steelwork & Fabrication workers

January 23, 2023

dB Blockers™  for Machinists, Steelwork & Fabrication workers

“Workers in the shipping and steelwork industries are exposed to the highest levels of occupational pollution because they work close to heavy industrial blowers that produce sounds of up to 112 dBA or higher.” Industrial noise pollution is caused by plants and factories – it can have an impact on the people working within as well as those living around these industrial buildings.

Machinists, Fabricators and maintenance people need to hear their machinery sound a certain way to ensure that it is running properly, so they don’t often wear their earplugs correctly.

Without the proper protective equipment, steel workers become prone to hearing damage which hinders their ability to detect a machine’s problems before it breaks down, resulting in costly consequences. dB Blockers provide your workers with the complete protection and audible range needed efficiently doing their job.

Learn more about how dB Blockers fit perfectly and come in with a convenient handle (The Grip) for clean, easy insertion and removal. For welders, disposable earplugs are not only inadequate but also dangerous as they melt, and even burn when hot slag hits them.dB Blocker - The Grip

 

Read More:

Interested in learning about Innovation hearing solutions, contact us today!  


#industrialnoise #hearingprotectors #noiseawareness #customprotectear #hearingsolutions #industrialhearingtrends #protectear #steelworkers #fabricators #machinests

Noise Levels and Exposure – Noise Reduction Rating

March 16, 2022

Noise Levels and Exposure

Noise reduction headphones are rated in decibels (dB). Before discussing the noise reduction rated values it is important to understand how noise is measured and how to identify, based on those measurements, when hearing protection is required. Noise is measured in units of sound pressure levels called decibels (dB). Typically, an “A” weighted filter is applied to the measurement, dB(A), because it provides measurements that more accurately represent the sensitivity of the human auditory system by de-emphasizing sound energy in the low and high frequencies in comparison to energy in the mid-frequency range.

high noise

What is NRR NOISE REDUCTION RATING (NRR)

A Noise Reduction Rating, also sometimes referred to under the umbrella term of “hearing protection rating,” can be a confusing concept for individuals who are just starting out in the world of hearing protection terminology. To keep it simple, Noise Reduction Ratings are a set of “rules” that are set in place to serve as an absolute point of reference for those who are serious about protecting worker hearing. The NRR essentially functions as a “ruler” that measures how well a particular piece of hearing protection or equipment may work in real-time and space.

Why NRR matters NOISE REDUCTION RATING (NRR)

When it comes to assessing the effectiveness of hearing protection, Specialists often look at the Attenuation Estimation Systems. NRR is a common method (rating) used to determine the attenuation (expressing values of noise reduction or attenuation provided by different types of hearing protectors). The values range from 0 to approximately 30, with higher values indicating greater amounts of noise reduction.

Since the NRR is based on laboratory testing, it does not consider the loss of protection that occurs when hearing protectors are not fit properly or when they are not worn for the entire time that the wearer is exposed to noise.

Learn More about NRR: https://www.protectear.com/field_attenuation_estimation_systems.


#CPE #Customprotectear #hearing #hearingprogram #nrr #noisereductionrating #attenuation #hearinnoise

 

Safety Service Manitoba conference

January 20, 2020

Come See Custom Protect Ear at this years SSM’s Occupational Health and Safety Conference

Vision

The Conference details are as follows:

WHEN; January 22-23, 2020

WHAT WITH THE ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA SAFETY PROFESSIONALS JANUARY 21, 2020

WHERE:

Victoria Inn Hotel & Convention Centre
1808 Wellington Avenue
Winnipeg, Manitoba

The theme for our upcoming OHS Conference, 20/20 Safety Vision, reminds us to keep your 20/20 vision focused on safety – both now and in the future.

WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING! 

“I have always asked myself why I attend these conferences. This year, the addition of the AMSP brought this home even more. After the second day of the conference on my 1-hour drive home, I realized why; I come to be inspired, so I can be inspirational at work. Many safety people see things that move us from the centre of why we do what we do, and the inspiration of these workshops and keynote speakers help us get back to centre and remember why we started our journeys as safety professionals.”

– Gary L’Heureux, CRSP; Health & Safety Officer Western Canada; Day & Ross Transportation Group

Who Should Attend?

20/20 Safety Vision is a must-attend event for anyone whose job involves responsibility for safety, health and wellness. This year’s lineup of topics offers insights and tips for senior managers, supervisors, union safety representatives, lead hands, occupational health and safety specialists, safety engineers, loss and risk managers, human resource managers, contractors and consultants. This year we’re pleased to host the sixth annual Assembly of Manitoba Safety Professionals – an advanced safety and health training and conference day specifically designed to meet the needs of Manitoba’s safety professionals. We’re looking forward to another full day of topics, round-table discussions and speakers.

Why You Should Attend

The SSM OHS Conference brings together over 550 delegates who play a role in health and safety in Manitoba and beyond. This is your chance to connect, share ideas and learn with your fellow safety leaders. • Choose from 24 workshop presentations, selected to help you build a safety culture • Hear keynote speakers Brandon Schroeder, Orlando Bowen, Paul Huschilt and Dr. Michael Wahl (see their brief bios below and visit the website for more detailed information) • Explore the latest in health and safety products and services with over 45 exhibitors in our trade show • BCRSP has previously awarded CM points for this event. The current agenda contains 11 technical hours and may be eligible for BCRSP CM points. See the BCRSP website (bcrsp.ca) for CM point criteria. Please note: The Assembly of Manitoba Safety Professionals includes 6.5 additional technical hours.

DOWNLOAD CONFERENCE BROCHURE

Hearing loss on the rise among Canadian oil and gas workers: study

August 16, 2019

Richmond, British Columbia — More Canadian oil and gas workers in the drilling sector are showing signs of job-related hearing loss, according to a recent study from WorkSafeBC.

oil-gas-pipework.jpg

Researchers looked at hearing test data collected by oil and gas employers from 2012 to 2017. They found that, despite an increase in workers reporting they wear hearing protection (to 98 percent from 94 percent), the percentage of workers with noise-induced hearing loss grew to 45 from 33.

Of the 294 workers affected, 66 percent were younger than 35.

“There are a number of reasons why workers may be diagnosed with noise-induced hearing loss even though they are wearing some form of hearing protection,” Sasha Brown, an occupational audiologist at WorkSafeBC, said in an Aug. 22 press release. “The earplugs or earmuffs might be the wrong size, inserted or worn incorrectly, not worn for long enough, or they may not be providing enough protection for the duration and intensity of noise exposure.”

heairing loss oil and gas

Why choose Custom Hearing Protection

Custom Hearing Protection – means a customized hearing solution that fits the individuals ear exactly leaving little to no room for noise to get in. Just like one size fits all work boots are probably not the best choice, neither is one size fits all hearing protection. Every human ear is unique in size, shape, and depth. Therefore it makes sense that for hearing protection to be the most effective, as well as the most comfortable, it must be custom fit.  Due to the increase of hearing loss claims, more and more employers are choosing custom hearing protection over disposable ear plugs. Read More for a case study. 

WorkSafeBC offers the following recommendations to employers:

  • Ensure all at-risk workers wear sufficient hearing protection that fits, and that they understand how to properly wear it.
  • Make sure workers insert or wear the correct hearing protection before entering a noisy environment, and wear it until they exit that location.
  • Rotate workers to different positions to minimize their time in noisy environments.
  • Identify potential engineering controls to mitigate risk of exposure.
  • Ensure workers have their hearing tested and are aware of the results.

To assist employers and workers, WorkSafeBC has published a safety bulletin featuring an infographic on earplug insertion and online resources.

Each year, 22 million U.S. workers face exposure to potentially damaging occupational noise, and employers spend an estimated $242 million on hearing loss disability, according to OSHA. The agency’s requirements for hearing protection are outlined in 29 CFR 1910.95.


SOURCE
https://www.safetyandhealthmagazine.com/articles/17549-hearing-loss-on-the-rise-among-canadian-oil-and-gas-workers-study

Top CDN Safety Trade Shows to Attend in whats left of 2019

August 9, 2019

Bad news: with so many available, deciding which one(s) to attend can be a challenge!

Here is a sneak preview of what is Available for the rest of 2019.

Whether you’re trying to decide which show is best for your employees to attend or you’re on the flip side and are trying to convince your boss, here’s my list of the top ten safety shows to consider attending in 2019 and why:

CHES National Conference

September 22-24, 2019

Saskatoon, Saskatchewan

ches conference saskatoon

For its 39th consecutive year, the Canadian Health Care Engineering Society will be hosting their Annual Conference of the Canadian Healthcare Engineering Society in Saskatoon. Known as the “hub” that enables resiliency in healthcare, this conference welcomes attendees from over 400 healthcare facilities across Canada. The CHES Conference is a fantastic place for those in the field to expand their knowledge base, network and continue their education.

CSSE

September 22-25, 2019

Winnipeg, Manitoba

csse 2019 winnipeg

The Canadian Society of Safety Engineer is one of the most important safety organizations in the country which is why it comes as no surprise that attending their annual conference is always worthwhile. Hundreds of safety professionals from across Canada, the U.S. and beyond join each fall to learn about the most current safety information, tools and practices available to ensure their workplaces are up to date and compliant.

One great thing about the CSSE show is that each year it moves to a new location across the country; a major bonus for individuals who may not have a lot of work flexibility to travel. Last year it was Niagara Falls, this year it will be in Winnipeg and in 2020 it’ll be taking place in St. John’s.

Le Grand Rendez-Vous

October 30-31, 2019

Montreal, Quebec

grand rendez-vous trade show and conference

For any of you who live in Quebec, here’s a great French Canadian safety show to keep on your radar. This robust safety conference focuses on innovations in the prevention of work accidents and occupational diseases. There is a huge list of safety pros lined up to present (you can read more about them here) at the 20+ sessions which cover the newest in health and safety. Between sessions, be sure to walk the trade show which will include nearly 200 exhibitors!

Motorcycle Riding: Protect your hearing

As the temperatures rise and the days are longer activities and outings change. These changes related to summer often mean BBQs, gatherings, Motorcycling and July 1 and 4th festivities with friends and family. And what also does occur is more noise; noise when riding, noisy music, noisy fireworks and even noisier traffic such as motorcycle riding.

Motorcycle Riding: Protect your hearing; the effort is worth it

Whether you wear a full-face helmet, a three-quarter or a shorty, earplugs are a must. Hearing damage is cumulative and permanent. It takes a little effort to find an earplug that will work for you, but it will be worth it. It’s much less cost and effort than hearing aids, I can assure you.
Wear Your Protection:

When your ears are exposed to constant wind noise, several things happen: the cilia inside your ears get tired (no, seriously) and collapse. Your brain gets tired from filtering out all that extraneous noise, and that causes unnecessary fatigue. The nerve connections between your ears and your brain can sustain damage.

All of that combined means hearing loss. If you’ve ever found your ears ringing after a stint on the highway, that means, without question, you are damaging your hearing. A 60mph wind will cause hearing damage within 15 minutes. You have 7 minutes at 75mph, and 3 minutes at 85mph with no hearing protection. Yes, if you’re not wearing earplugs you are definitely slowly going deaf.Motorcyles

Windshields and full-face helmets can damp the wind noise some, but they often just change the windflow without quieting the noise. Earplugs are a great low-cost way to protect your hearing. The frequency of wind is excellent at damaging humans’ hearing. Earplugs will filter out those frequencies but they absolutely do still allow you to hear sirens, horns, and other traffic warnings. If you find the earplugs you’ve used block too much sound, try different ones.

There are a bunch of different earplugs on the market, and they can be divided into two simple categories: disposable and reusable. Disposable earplugs are made of foam, and the general rule is, they work well three times: if you wear them all day three days in a row, or if you take them out and reinsert them three times in one day, they’re done, the foam wears out, and they don’t hold a good seal anymore. They must be inserted in a specific way into your ear, and you can see that process on the CDC website here.

Hearing Protection – Earplug Options

There are also Reusable or custom hearing protection which is a little more expensive, but they will last you about 5 years and the fit your ear exactly. Custom Protect Ear’s dB Life All Sport Earpiece and Headset is the rider who wants to listen to their digital music player or radio, All Sport™ is the ideal way to take your tunes on the road. All Sport™ is a headset that connects to your digital music player and is specially designed to work in the harsh environment bikers endure. Wind noise, bike rumble, and traffic sound compound to make listening to radio or music a challenge while riding. Learn More about the All Sport. 

Whatever option you choose – it is imperative you choose at least one. If you are unsure then we recommend you ask your friends what earplugs they use, and if you can try a pair of theirs: that’s the easiest, cheapest way to go about finding a good, comfortable pair of earplugs. If you want a longer term solution then check out Custom Protect Ears website to find a hearing solution for you and your lifestyle need.

Good luck everybody, and happy hearing!


SOURCE

https://www.rideapart.com/articles/355870/ear-plugs-protect-your-hearing/

What is hearing loss?

July 30, 2019

After our eyes, the most important sensory organ is our ears, thus hearing loss has significant consequences. In most cases, hearing loss is age-related. However, it can also be triggered by loud noises or infections, or may be hereditary.

Hearing loss may occur very suddenly, although in most cases it is gradual, and so you only become aware of it as it progresses. Fortunately, in most cases impaired hearing can be improved, or even fully corrected, either by using a proper hearing protection device or by using a hearing aid. 

First signs of Hearing Loss 

Hearing loss rarely occurs all of a sudden. It usually develops gradually, over a long period of time – and is therefore imperceptible at first. This is because those affected gradually get used to the onset of hearing loss. Because the brain can compensate for the hearing deficiencies for a long time, there are few disadvantages in everyday life during the first phase.

hearing loss

But from a certain point, hearing loss can no longer be readily compensated for. Often, this is noticed by family and friends of the affected person long before they themselves realize they cannot hear normally. Hearing loss can have an impact on your daily life either socially and recreationally. With an already noisy world we have started to see hearing loss grow in the workplace as well. Solutions like a custom hearing protection device such as dB Blockers has grown in popularity amongst individuals and employers. Learn more. 

Long Term Affects of Hearing Loss

Even those affected by hearing loss who know that they can no longer hear perfectly often still do nothing for a long time. Using the argument “It’s still OK!”, they put off a hearing test with an audiologist or ENT doctor. This is because being aware of your own hearing loss is one thing, but acknowledging it is not so easy.

hearing loss

The problem is that if you wait too long, you risk serious consequences. Researchers have found that after about seven years, our brains simply lose the ability to hear certain sounds.

If you can hear these sounds again with a hearing aid, they may no longer be correctly interpreted, and are therefore often perceived as excessively loud and unpleasant – even if it’s something as harmless as the rustling of leaves or a friendly conversation next door.

The following three questions may help you find out if you have hearing loss:

  1. Do you hear low background noise excessively loudly?
  2. Do you have the TV on very loud?
  3. Do you find conversations stressful?

To Learn more about hearing loss contact your local Audiologist. Also check out our resources page. 

 


Source:https://www.connecthearing.ca/hearing-loss/