Noisy Flightdeck, Headsets and Hearing Loss
My flightdeck (B737) is very noisy, particularly at high speed/low level which is exactly when you need to hear the other guy. Although Mr Boeing very kindly fitted a good intercom systen he neglected to fit latch-on intercom switches which makes it's use impractical.
To counter the ambient noise we turn the radio volume right up, often to a painful level, and then take off one earpiece so we can hear the other guy.
I am convinced I am going deaf in the RT ear.
What experience do others have of this?
Do any jet operators use intercoms?
Or provide headsets with some noise attenuation?
Has anyone ever come across a proper accredited study of this problem, leads appreciated?
Are any companies concerned at their potential liability for damaging employees hearing in this avoidable way?
[ 01 August 2001: Message edited by: capt waffoo ]