1Lt Gretchen Haywood
Members of the Armed Forces are exposed to hazardous levels of noise daily. Hearing Conservation Plans are put in place to monitor and inform troops of dangers to their hearing, and personal hearing protection is issued to protect workers from excessive noise exposure. In attempts to determine attitudes and behaviors related to hearing loss and PPE, surveys were distributed to active duty military exposed to hazardous noise levels. The survey’s goal was to determine what motivation and education is necessary for workers to value their hearing. In addition, surveys to retired military members assessed previous attitudes towards hearing and PPE, a change in attitude related to hearing loss, and any words of wisdom for those who still can salvage their hearing. From the survey data, recommendations may be made in attempts to encourage soldiers to take a more active role in their hearing future.