Ratepayers in the R.M. of Britannia No. 502 will have an opportunity later this month to learn more about hearing health and noise-related risks on the farm.
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The R.M. will host a Hearing Clinic for Farmers on Thursday, Jan. 29, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the R.M. of Britannia No. 502 office, located at RR 3281 south of Township Road 504.
The clinic will provide information on preventing noise-induced hearing loss, choosing appropriate hearing protection and recognizing signs of hearing damage. Those interested must 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 explanation of the results. The clinic will also demonstrate proper earplug insertion and provide take-home educational materials. Clinic staff will make referrals to family physicians or audiologists when necessary. Hearing aids will not be sold at the clinic.
“Hearing protection only works if it is used,” 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.
Ulmer said farm environments often expose workers to harmful noise levels.
“On the farm, there are many noises including those from augers, tractors, shotguns and squealing hogs at feeding time that can damage your hearing,” she said.
Agricultural health and safety resources and programs will also be reviewed during the clinic.
The R.M. of Britannia offers the clinic to its ratepayers because the municipality belongs to the Agricultural Health and Safety Network. The Canadian Centre for Rural and Agricultural Health and the Saskatchewan Ministry of Agriculture co-sponsor the clinic.
For more information, contact Ulmer at 306-966-6643 or by email at ag***************@***sk.ca.
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