Filipino seafarers, the lifeblood of the global maritime industry, are now urged to put their hearing wellness first, as prolonged exposure to high noise levels has now been linked to varying degrees of noise-induced hearing loss over time.
In light of this concern, Manila Hearing Aid (MHA), a trusted name in Philippine hearing care for over 47 years, just launched a special awareness campaign in October, aimed at these heroes, both hearing aid users and non-users, to ensure their hearing well-being. This initiative coincides with MHA’s long-running special discount for seafarers, offering a 20 percent price reduction on select hearing aids.
The maritime industry has long been founded and built on hard work, dedication, and sacrifice. With over 489,000 Filipino sailors serving aboard ships worldwide in 2022, these mariners play an essential role in maintaining the global supply chain, ensuring passenger safety, and safeguarding cargo, these are but a few of the parts being fulfilled by our Filipino seafarers.
Hearing wellness is an unsung importance for seafarers, given the hazardous noise levels in ship machinery spaces. To promote hearing wellness among seafarers, MHA has put forth a guide offering valuable advice for both hearing aid users and non-users.
For seafarers who rely on hearing aids, these devices are indispensable tools in an environment where effective transmission is crucial. Ships are equipped with audible alarms and rely on seamless communication for safety, making hearing aids an essential part of the job.
Consistent use of hearing aids allows users to adapt to different sound levels, ensuring they never miss important conversations or safety instructions. The only exception is when they are exposed to high-noise-level spaces, where hearing protective devices (HPD) such as ear muffs or plugs should be used.
Hearing aids, while advanced and water-resistant, still require proper care. Using hearing aid care products like drying beakers, moisture removal capsules, and water-resistant covers can help prolong their lifespan in the demanding seafaring environment.
Given the constant hustle and bustle of ship machinery, non-hearing aid users must always wear hearing protective devices (HPD) to safeguard their hearing. Also, attending training and seminars on hearing wellness equips crew members with effective practices for maintaining their hearing health while working on ships. For exposure to high noise levels exceeding 85 decibels for extended periods, seafarers are advised to take regular listening breaks to reduce the risk of hearing damage.
Manila Hearing Aid is offering a 20 percent discount on select hearing aids for seafarers who wish to purchase their devices. In the spirit of setting the sails for Manila Hearing Aid’s Seafarer’s Special campaign, all seafarers need only present their Seafarers Identity Document (SID) issued by the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA). MHA offers up to 20 percent discounts on their select hearing aids, available at all 16 MHA clinics nationwide beginning in October 2023 up until January 15, 2024.
For additional information about their newest special offer and a complete list of clinic locations, visit the official Manila Hearing Aid website.
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