Acoustic Safety Programme Conference Nov '05

An Acoustic Shock is a random frequency surge delivered via a headset, caused by a sudden spike of noise that will damage the human ear. Symptoms can range from a ringing in the ear or Tinnitus to permanent damage of the inner ear affecting hearing or even the organic mechanisms of balance. It contributes to the high levels of absenteeism and staff attrition in the call centre industry.

The Acoustic Safety Programme's first conference was held November '05 and raised awareness of acoustic shock and it's solutions to those in the call centre industry and the general public.

Following his attendance at the conference, NW BT Unions H&S Co-ord member and director of Oasis Health & Safety Chris Ingram, said:

" The conference represented a major initiative for the UK and brought together, acoustic specialists,health & safety specialists, trade unions and solution providers with the one aim of preventing a major epidemic in the UK's contact centre industry of acoustic shock.

Sadly as with all things to do with health & safety, the industry bodies representing employers within the sector still refuse to acknowledge the serious implications this issues has for the health of their employees and the health of their companies."

Chris's report is available here