OHD stands for Occupational Hearing Loss, which refers to a type of hearing impairment that occurs due to exposure to loud noises or hazardous sound levels in the workplace. It is a work-related condition that can lead to permanent damage to the auditory system if not properly managed.
Occupational Hearing Loss typically occurs when individuals are exposed to loud noises or repetitive sound levels that exceed the recommended safe limits over an extended period. This can happen in industries such as construction, manufacturing, mining, or any other workplace where noise levels are consistently high.
Symptoms of OHD may include difficulty hearing high-frequency sounds, ringing or buzzing in the ears (tinnitus), trouble understanding speech, or a feeling of fullness in the ears. If left untreated, OHD can gradually worsen, leading to significant hearing loss and even deafness.
Preventing OHD primarily involves implementing effective hearing conservation programs in the workplace. These programs may include regular noise level monitoring, providing appropriate hearing protection devices to employees, educating workers about hearing health and safety, and enforcing regulations and guidelines related to noise exposure.
Early detection and appropriate management of OHD are crucial to prevent further hearing damage. Audiometric testing, which measures hearing thresholds, is often used to assess the extent of hearing loss and determine appropriate interventions. Treatment options may include hearing aids, assistive listening devices, or in severe cases, cochlear implants.
