international news_ Jonty Skrufff _ 14th December, 2004
Club Workers Face Deafness Danger
A new report on sound levels in Britain's and clubs published this week warns that many workers risk permanent hearing damage and tinnitus due to the high decibel levels they're exposed to.
The report (published by the Royal National Institute for the Deaf and TUC) called for venue owners to introduce immediate changes such as offering earplugs to staff and regular breaks from noise.
"Many employers in bars and clubs are currently in breach of the law, said RNID, spokesperson, Mark Hoda.
"Because noise damage is cumulative and the effects not immediate, employers often fail to enforce hearing protection for their staff. And yet, a simple measure of wearing quality earplugs would protect these workers from long-term irreparable hearing damage.
"With Christmas just around the corner, giving all bar staff quality earplugs would be the best present a bar or club owner could offer."
The RNIB issued further guidelines to revellers this week urging them to also start wearing earplugs and to avoid standing too close to speakers.
"Use chillout rooms to take regular breaks from loud music," they advised. "Ensure you give your ears regular breaks from loud noise."
(Jonty Skrufff / Skrufff.com)
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