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Health and Safety Information 44
Prolonged exposure to loud sounds (including music) is the most common cause of
preventable hearing loss. Some scientific research suggests that using portable
audio devices, such as portable music players and cell phones, at high volume
settings for long durations may lead to permanent noise-induced hearing loss. This
includes the use of headphones (including headsets, earbuds, and Bluetooth
®
or
other wireless devices).
Exposure to very loud sound has also been associated in some studies with tinnitus
(a ringing in the ear), hypersensitivity to sound, and distorted hearing. Individual
susceptibility to noise-induced hearing loss and potential hearing problem varies.
Additionally, the amount of sound produced by a portable audio device varies
depending on the nature of the sound, the device settings, and the headphones that
are used. As a result, there is no single volume setting that is appropriate for
everyone or for every combination of sound, settings, and equipment.