Defending workers against hearing loss: Why aren't workers hearing our message?

摘要

It is well known that hearing can be damaged by noise. Noise exposure limits, engineering controls, work rotations and hearing protection are well understood and applied in the workplace; however the incidence of noise induced hearing loss continues to increase. This paper examines likely reasons why our current training of workers exposed to noise in the workplace is possibly 'falling on deaf ears'. Is the message too complicated? How can it be simplified? How can we make the hearing conservation message resonate more personally within the worker? Noise injury is currently the second biggest cost to business in general workplaces but is the number one cost for organisations supporting Defence Veterans. The human cost is also high, as shown by the diminished quality of life for the affected persons. The Australian Department of Defence has responded to this challenge by forming a 'Noise Exposure Reduction Program' taskforce charged with revamping noise and hearing conservation policies and training. This paper will showcase some of the creative yet simple techniques Defence is deploying to create more engaging training experience for servicemen and women. This is taking an important step towards changing worker's authentic engagement in personal hearing conservation.