Recent studies highlight concerning hearing problems among UK tradespeople.
- Over 21% of tradespeople experience hearing issues related to their work environment.
- Another 21% of workers fear future hearing problems, with young workers significantly affected.
- Current safety practices are insufficient, with minimal regular hearing checks or use of protective equipment.
- Nic Wray from Tinnitus UK emphasizes essential protective measures to prevent irreversible damage.
New research commissioned for Tinnitus Awareness Week reveals that more than 21% of tradespeople in the UK have developed hearing problems as a result of their work environment. The study, conducted by IronmongeryDirect, indicates that a substantial portion of workers across the nation are suffering from auditory issues, while also highlighting a pervasive fear among an additional 21% regarding potential future hearing difficulties. Such concerns are particularly pronounced among younger workers, with nearly half of those aged 18-34 already reporting some degree of hearing trouble.
The research further underscores the inadequacy of current safety measures in the industry. A mere 11% of tradespeople undergo regular hearing evaluations, and only 17% consistently utilize ear protection in situations where it is necessary. The data suggests that certain trades are more susceptible to hearing damage, with professions such as bricklayers showing a significant 50% likelihood of encountering hearing issues. Other affected trades include builders at 30%, carpenters at 27%, and plumbers at 23%.
Nic Wray, Communications Manager at Tinnitus UK, asserts the critical nature of safeguarding hearing at work. Wray comments, ‘Exposure to loud noise can damage your ears, leading to hearing loss and tinnitus. Noise starts to become a risk to hearing at 80 decibels (dBA) and in a working environment, hearing protection should be provided at 85 dBA or above.’
Nic Wray also provides guidance on recognizing signs of potential hearing loss, such as needing to raise one’s voice to be heard, difficulty in understanding conversations from a short distance, and perceiving speech as muffled when moving away from noisy areas. Importantly, Wray emphasizes that once hearing damage occurs, it is irreversible, thus highlighting the importance of awareness and proactive protection measures.
Ellis Osborn, Ecommerce Manager at IronmongeryDirect, reiterates the necessity for tradespeople to prioritize their hearing health. Osborn notes, ‘Hearing protection for tradespeople is incredibly important and our research suggests that there’s still more work to be done to make sure people are protected. It’s really important that individuals look after their own hearing by wearing appropriate protection while working in loud settings, as well as scheduling regular hearing check-ups.’
Addressing hearing protection inadequacies is essential to safeguard UK tradespeople from preventable hearing loss.
