There are some farm animals whose squeals can produce noise levels high enough to damage your hearing. Earmuffs may offer greater protection than earplugs in certain environments, but preventing noise‑induced hearing loss requires proper and consistent use of hearing protection.
That’s the word coming from the organizers as they look at the issues that will be addressed at the Hearing Clinic for Farmers in the R.M. of Britannia.
The clinic is scheduled for Thursday, January 29 from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the RM Office on RR 3281 south of Township Road 504. You can can book an appointment by calling 306-821‑7257.
Participants will receive a visual inspection of the ear canal and eardrum, along with a hearing screening and a full explanation of the results. The clinic will also demonstrate proper earplug insertion and provide take‑home education on hearing protection. When needed, referrals will be made to family physicians or audiologists. No hearing aids are sold at the clinic.
Agricultural health and safety resources will also be reviewed throughout the visit.
“On the farm, there are many noises including those from augers, tractors, shotguns, and squealing hogs at feeding time that can damage your hearing,” said Kendra Ulmer, Nurse and Clinic Director for the Agricultural Health and Safety Network at the Canadian Centre for Rural and Agricultural Health, University of Saskatchewan.
The clinic is being offered to Britannia ratepayers as part of their membership in the Agricultural Health and Safety Network. It is co‑sponsored by the Canadian Centre for Rural and Agricultural Health and the Saskatchewan Ministry of Agriculture.
