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Still hearing well in twenty years
Hearing loss comes gradually. You don't notice it from day to day but after many years in a noisy workshop the damage has occurred — and it cannot be repaired because the damaged sensory cells in the ear do not grow back. In the metal workshop noise comes from hammer blows against stake and anvil from grinding and polishing machines and from pneumatic tools. Therefore protection against noise is one of the most important ongoing occupational health considerations in the trade.
The rules on noise are based on fixed thresholds for the daily noise exposure measured in dB(A). At the lower action value of 80 dB(A), the employer must make hearing protection available and inform about the risk. At the upper action value of 85 dB(A), hearing protection must be used, and measures must be taken to reduce noise. Daily noise exposure must not exceed the limit value of 85 dB(A), and there is also a limit for sharp impulse sounds (peak value).
| Level | Meaning | Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| 80 dB(A) | Lower action value | Hearing protection provided information |
| 85 dB(A) | Upper action value / limit | Hearing protection MUST be used noise must be reduced |
| Peak value | Loud impulse sounds | Special limit for short, loud bangs |
Pneumatic chisels, grinders and pneumatic engraving handpieces transfer vibrations to the hand and arm. Prolonged exposure can cause hand-arm vibration syndrome with reduced sensation, strength and blood flow in the fingers (so-called 'white fingers'). Vibration load is reduced by choosing vibration-damped tools, keeping tools maintained and sharp, taking breaks and avoiding gripping harder than necessary.
“Hearing is the only one you have — and it cannot be replaced.”