I work in a nightclub. How can I protect my ears from the noise?

Prolonged or repeated exposure to sound at a high volume (more than 89 decibels)
can cause permanent hearing problems, but it is possible to limit the damage. It is important to use ear protectors €“ earplugs or earmuffs €“ and get away from the noise as quickly or as often as possible with regular breaks.

Strict health and safety rules mean employees should be given the correct ear protection to wear. €An employer should ensure that they are complying with the Noise at Work Laws 2005,€ says Louise Hart. €Therefore ear protection must be provided if the sound is over 85 decibels.€

€Taking breaks during a shift gives the ears some time to recover, as the length of time someone is exposed is just as important as the loudness. Shifts should be rotated between noisy and quiet areas in the nightclub and employers should look at whether there are ways to reduce the sound levels in the area where a person works, such as installing extra acoustic barriers between them and the music.€