96
Safety Guidelines
Caution: Avoid potential
hearing loss.
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
cellular telephones, 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 other
potential hearing problems varies.
The amount of sound produced by a portable
audio device varies depending on the nature
of the sound, the device, the device settings
and the headphones. You should follow some
commonsense recommendations when using
any portable audio device:
204 Safety
]
Set the volume in a quiet environment and
select the lowest volume at which you can
hear adequately.
]
When using headphones, turn the
volume down if you cannot hear the
people speaking near you or if the person
sitting next to you can hear what you are
listening to.
]
Do not turn the volume up to block
out noisy surroundings. If you choose
to listen to your portable device in a
noisy environment, use noisecancelling
headphones to block out background
environmental noise.
]
Limit the amount of time you listen. As the
volume increases, less time is required
before your hearing could be affected.
]
Avoid using headphones after exposure
to extremely loud noises, such as rock
concerts, that might cause temporary
hearing loss. Temporary hearing loss might
cause unsafe volumes to sound normal.
]
Do not listen at any volume that causes
you discomfort. If you experience ringing
in your ears, hear muffled speech or
experience any temporary hearing difficulty
after listening to your portable audio
device, discontinue use and consult your
doctor.
