Nearly 40% of teenagers and young adults aged 12-35 years in middle and high-income countries are exposed to potentially damaging sound levels in venues such as nightclubs, discotheques and bars, WHO said in a statement, adding that it recommended a maximum average sound level of 100 decibels.
The risk of hearing loss is intensified because most audio devices, venues and events do not provide safe-listening options, Bente Mikkelsen, WHO director for the department for noncommunicable diseases, said yesterday.
The organisation provided six recommendations to ensure venues and events limit the risk of hearing loss to their patrons, while preserving high-quality sound and an enjoyable listening experience:
- A maximum average sound level of 100 decibels;
- Live monitoring and recording of sound levels using calibrated equipment by designated staff;
- Optimising venue acoustics and sound systems to ensure enjoyable sound quality and safe listening;
- Making personal hearing protection available to audiences, including instructions on use;
- Offering access to quiet zones for people to rest their ears and decrease the risk of hearing damage; and
- Providing training and information to staff.
The new recommendations are in addition to guidelines it issued in 2019 outlining how individuals can limit hearing damage due to prolonged exposure to loud music on devices such as mobile phones and audio players.