Ear-Safety Habits By WHO: Did You Know Sharing Your Earphones Is A Big No-No?

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According to the WHO, approximately 63 million people in India suffer from Significant Auditory Impairment. This places the prevalence at 6.3% for the entire population [1].

The World Health Organization (WHO) has issued a new standard for safe listening at venues and events. This standard applies to all events and venues where amplified music is played.

"Millions of teenagers and young people are at risk of hearing loss due to the unsafe use of personal audio devices and exposure to damaging sound levels at venues such as nightclubs, bars, concerts and sporting events," said Dr Bente Mikkelsen, WHO Director for the Department for Noncommunicable Diseases [2].

Here are some tips on how to keep your ears safe according to WHO.

Ear-Safety Habits By WHO

WHO has provided the following tips to combat the growing threat of hearing loss [3]:

• Do not put cotton buds, oil, sticks or pins inside your ears.
• Do not share earphones or earplugs.
• Do not swim or wash in dirty water.
• Do not listen to loud sounds or loud music.

To ensure that venues and events minimise the risk of hearing loss for patrons while maintaining high-quality sound and a pleasant listening experience, the Global standard for safe listening at venues and events contains six recommendations for implementation.

There are six recommendations according to the WHO [4]:

• The sound level should not exceed 100 decibels on average.
• Live monitoring and recording of sound levels by designated personnel using calibrated equipment.
• Optimising the acoustics and sound systems of the venue so that the sound quality is enjoyable and the listening experience is safe.

• Provide instructions on how to use personal hearing protection for audiences.
• Assuring that people have access to quiet zones where they can rest their ears and reduce the risk of hearing damage.
• Training and information are provided to employees as part of this process.

Noise-induced Hearing Loss Is Permanent But Preventable

Hearing loss or tinnitus may result from exposure to loud sounds, but prolonged or repeated exposure can lead to permanent hearing loss.

Young people can protect their hearing by taking the following steps:

• Keeping the volume of personal audio devices low
• Use earphones/headphones that are well-fitted and, if possible, noise-cancelling
• When attending noisy events, wear earplugs
• Regularly checking your hearing

What is the difference between hearing loss and deafness?

Hearing loss is the reduced ability to hear sounds in the same way as other people. At the same time, deafness is when a person cannot understand speech through hearing, even when sound is amplified.

On A Final Note...

Hearing loss is not always preventable. The following steps can be taken to protect your hearing, however, have regular hearing tests if you work in an environment where loud noises are made, or attend concerts regularly, avoid prolonged exposure to loud sounds and music, and seek help if you experience ear infections as they may result in permanent damage if left untreated.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.