Safety of Personal Listening Devices on the Job

Safety factors and employer polices determine the use of personal listening devices while on the job.

Identification

• Personal listening devices may be phones or stereos used to listen to music or radio that is not associated with the workplace.

Effects

• Using a personal listening device can be a distraction or a means to avoid distraction, depending on the situation. In a noisy environment, a personal listening device can filter out noise, but this may also interfere with on-the-job communication.

Considerations

• Polices on using personal listening devices at work are set by employers. Breaking these polices can be grounds for dismissal.

Warning

• If hearing impairment or interference is a work safety issue, such as for someone who drives or operates heavy equipment, then use of personal listening devices will likely be prohibited. Many states have laws against using headphones while driving.

Prevention/Solution

• Common sense is often a deciding factor when using personal listening devices. Safety always trumps personal entertainment or distraction, especially in the workplace, where there can be employment and legal repercussions.