What is a hearing conservation program?
They are guidelines to prevent noise induced hearing loss/deafness, especially for workplaces. In Singapore, the Workplace Safety and Health Council (WSHC) and the Ministry of Manpower has issued guidelines on this topic.
What is noise induced deafness (NID)?
From the WSHC website, it is defined as a permanent loss in hearing sensitivity, which can lead to communication difficulties, social isolation and degradation in the quality of life. It is usually caused by prolonged exposure to excessive noise, which is very common in various industrial processes and work activities.
Why should employers be concerned?
It is very easy and affordable to provide adequate hearing protection and training to your employees, rather than paying out compensations for occupational hearing loss!
Where the noise exposure is due to work, NID is notifiable to the Ministry of Manpower via iReport and compensable under the Work Injury Compensation Act.
Does Amazing Hearing Centre conduct Audiometric Tests for NID?
Yes, we are able to. If your employee complains of hearing loss and is constantly exposed to very high noise levels at work, do call us to find out how we can assist you in doing the hearing test. You can reach us here.
Where can I find out more?
Additional resources: WSHC Hearing Conservation Progamme PDF
Noise Induced Deafness in Singapore