Protect Your Hearing This Season

September 24, 2018

by Mankato Clinic

Exposure to noise from hunting and harvest can lead to hearing loss. One way to reduce the risk of hearing loss is by wearing hearing protectors.

According to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, agricultural workers experience one of the highest rates of hearing loss and report significant hearing loss by the age of 30. Firearms produce noise from 140 to 175 decibels. Just one shot without hearing protection can cause hearing loss according to the American Speech-Language-Hearing-Association.

That’s why hearing protection is important. 

Farmers need to protect their hearing from prolonged exposure to the noise of tractors, combines, machinery and farm animals. Earmuffs work well for farmers because they are easy to take on and off as needed.

For hunting, foam ear plugs inserted in the ear are a good option. It’s important to insert the plugs properly for maximum protection. There are a variety of electronic hearing protectors from earmuffs to plugs that protect your ears from shooting while amplifying other sounds such as the snap of a twig or the voice of your hunting partner.

Custom ear plugs are also an option for hunters and farmers. Mankato Clinic Audiology can test your hearing and fit you for custom ear plugs that suit your lifestyle.