Around 15,000 people during the past year suffered from noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) caused or made worse by work [1] .
In a joint effort to tackle the issue, science-based technology company 3M, which manufactures hearing protective equipment, has partnered with charity Action on Hearing Loss to raise funds and awareness.
Throughout the year, 3M will be drawing on its workplace safety expertise to offer advice and tips on how to prevent workers from being exposed to loud noises, while also taking part in a team challenge to raise funds for Action on Hearing Loss.
To kick this off, a 15-strong team from 3M will be taking on the Yorkshire Three Peaks challenge.
Jenn Raymond, senior marketing executive at 3M, said: “Hearing conservation is going to be a big focus for 3M this year and we want to do everything we can to shine a light on this important issue.
“While NIHL is completely preventable, it is not yet curable. With thousands of people suffering from NIHL every year, we want to give it the attention it deserves and stop it from negatively impacting on people’s lives.”
On 23 April, the group from 3M will be walking 26 miles and ascending 2,142 metres to raise money for Action on Hearing Loss. 3M has already pledged to donate £2,000 and the team are asking for support.
Jenn added: “As well as highlighting ways to prevent the condition, we also want to be able to help those who are already living with it by raising as much funds as possible for Action on Hearing Loss.
“The Yorkshire Three Peaks challenge is not for the faint-hearted and I’m really pleased we have got such a large group taking part. It really is going to be a team effort and we are all going to have to help each other to cross the finishing line. We would really appreciate any donations – big or small!”
The charity Action on Hearing Loss works to support the millions of people confronting deafness, tinnitus and hearing loss across the UK, through providing support and care in the community, developing technology and treatments, and campaigning for equality.
Paul Breckell, Chief Executive of Action on Hearing Loss said: “We are delighted that 3M is supporting us to help raise awareness of hearing loss and, in particular, noise-induced hearing loss.
“This type of hearing loss can often be gradual with any serious damage to hearing not noticed until years later. Therefore, it is incredibly important to consider noise exposure within the workplace and we are very supportive of 3M’s work in this area.
“We are also really pleased that 3M has decided to sign up to the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge to raise funds for us and we are looking forward to being there on the day to cheer them on!”
To support the 3M team taking on the challenge, please visit www.justgiving.com/3MYorkshire3Peaks
To find out more about 3M’s personal protective equipment, please visit www.3M.co.uk/safety
To find out more about Action on Hearing Loss’s work, please visit www.actiononhearingloss.org.uk
3M is a trademark of 3M Company.
[1] http://www.hse.gov.uk/Statistics/causdis/deafness/index.htm
Published: 14-04-16
Click here for more information: www.justgiving.com/3MYorkshire3Peaks