Recent research highlights significant hearing difficulties among UK tradespeople, posing serious occupational health concerns.
- Over 21% of tradespeople report hearing problems due to their work, with fears of future issues also prevalent.
- Alarmingly, nearly half of young tradespeople aged 18-34 are already experiencing hearing loss symptoms.
- Despite known risks, protective measures are scarcely adopted across the industry, highlighting a gap in safety practices.
- Certain trades, such as bricklaying and building, show the highest incidence of hearing issues among workers.
Research indicates that more than a fifth (21%) of tradespeople in the UK suffer from hearing problems as a result of their work environment. This data, gathered in conjunction with Tinnitus Awareness Week, calls attention to a critical occupational health issue within the industry.
A worrying trend emerges as 49% of young tradespeople, particularly those aged 18 to 34, are already facing hearing difficulties. This suggests that hearing problems manifest early in their careers, underscoring the urgent need for proactive health measures.
Despite these concerns, only 11% of the surveyed individuals reported undergoing regular hearing checks, and merely 17% consistently use ear protection when necessary. This lack of preventative action highlights a substantial gap in workplace safety practices aimed at preserving auditory health.
Among various trades, bricklayers exhibit the most significant hearing issues, with 50% affected. Other trades also report high rates of hearing problems: builders (30%), carpenters (27%), and plumbers (23%) follow closely behind. These figures shed light on the varying levels of risk faced by different occupations within the sector.
Nic Wray from Tinnitus UK emphasises the irreversible nature of noise-induced hearing damage, advocating for proper hearing protection once noise levels reach 80 decibels. He urges tradespeople to recognise the signs of hearing damage early and to take preventive measures to safeguard their hearing.
Key recommendations include maintaining the condition of hearing protection equipment, taking regular breaks in quieter environments, staying hydrated, and ensuring regular hearing tests. Such practices are crucial in mitigating the risks of irreversible hearing damage.
Ellis Osborn from IronmongeryDirect acknowledges the need for heightened awareness and action in the industry to protect tradespeople’s hearing. Partnerships with organisations like Tinnitus UK aim to drive education and safety improvements across the sector.
Effective hearing protection measures are imperative to address and mitigate the widespread hearing issues among UK tradespeople.
