Hearing Protection

You are at risk of hearing loss

• Hearing damage can take the form of temporary or permanent ringing in the ears (tinnitus) and loss of the ability to hear clearly.
• Amplified music can cause noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL). A study in Great Britain found that 62% of regular clubbers have symptoms of hearing loss.
• The risk of hearing damage depends on: (1) how loud the music is; (2) how close you are to the speakers; (3) how long you are on the dance floor; and (4) previous hearing damage.
• You may be at risk if you have a family history of hearing loss.

Do you have hearing damage?

• You have ringing in your ears.
• You’re sensitive to loud noises.
• You have difficulty hearing others when there is background noise.
• People sound like they’re mumbling or talking too quickly; you have to ask them to repeat themselves.
• You need to turn the volume on the TV or radio higher than others.
• You hear the telephone better through one ear than the other.

If you have any of these symptoms, get your hearing checked by a hearing health professional. To prevent more damage, wear earplugs!

Be aware of your environment

• Sound levels in dance clubs can be as high as 115 decibels, which can cause damage within a few seconds
• Stay at least 10 feet away from the speakers – dancing in front of the speakers is very risky.
• Use ear plugs – cotton and rolled up tissue paper provide NO protection.
• Ask that sound levels be turned down if too loud.
• Don’t talk on the dance floor – shouting into ears can damage hearing.
• Alcohol and drugs lower your sense of pain and increase the risk of hearing damage. Being tired, dehydrated, or overheated also increase risk.
• Drink plenty of water. Take 10-30 minute breaks where sound levels are lower.
• If you dance a lot or work in a club, consider getting custom earplugs for music attenuation to protect your hearing without distorting sound.

How to use ear plugs

1. With clean hands, roll the earplug until it is as thin as possible.
2. Quickly insert the tapered end all the way into your ear.
3. Hold it in place for at least 30 seconds until it fully expands.
4. Release the earplug then gently push it in one more time to ensure a complete fit. The end should be even with the opening of your ear canal.