Filter
Top Products
12
12. Where can I nd additional information?
For additional information, please refer to the following resources:
•
FDA web page on wireless devices (http://www.fda.gov/cellphones)
•
Federal Communications Commission (FCC) RF Safety Program (http://www.fcc.gov/oet/
rfsafety)
•
International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection (http://www.icnirp.de)
•
World Health Organization (WHO) International EMF Project (http://www.who.int/emf)
•
National Radiological Protection Board (UK) (http://www.hpa.org.uk/radiation/)
AVOID POTENTIAL HEARING LOSS
Prolonged exposure to loud sounds (including music) is the most common cause of
preventable hearing loss. Some scientic research suggests that using portable audio
devices, such as portable music players and cellular telephones, at high volume settings for
long durations may lead to permanent noise-induced hearing loss. This includes the use of
headphones (including headsets, earbuds and Bluetooth® or other wireless devices). Exposure
to very loud sound has also been associated in some studies with tinnitus (a ringing in the
ear), hypersensitivity to sound and distorted hearing. Individual susceptibility to noise-
induced hearing loss and other potential hearing problems varies.
The amount of sound produced by a portable audio device varies depending on the nature
of the sound, the device, the device settings and the headphones. You should follow some
commonsense recommendations when using any portable audio device:
•
Set the volume in a quiet environment and select the lowest volume at which you can
hear adequately.
•
When using headphones, turn the volume down if you cannot hear the people speaking
near you or if the person sitting next to you can hear what you are listening to.
•
Do not turn the volume up to block out noisy surroundings. If you choose to listen to your
portable device in a noisy environment, use noise-cancelling headphones to block out
background environmental noise.
•
Limit the amount of time you listen. As the volume increases, less time is required before
your hearing could be aected.
•
Avoid using headphones after exposure to extremely loud noises, such as rock concerts,
that might cause temporary hearing loss. Temporary hearing loss might cause unsafe
volumes to sound normal.
•
Do not listen at any volume that causes you discomfort. If you experience ringing in your
ears, hear mued speech or experience any temporary hearing diculty after listening to