ASU Police leading effort to protect officers against hearing loss

The Arizona State University Police Department recently purchased hearing protection devices for their officers that are custom-fitted and feature innovative technology to prevent hearing loss while allowing wearers the ability to maintain full situational awareness.

 The rechargeable, Bluetooth capable hearing aid and protection devices are molded to the ear shape of each individual officer ensuring the best possible fit while maximizing device features.   

 “Taking care of the officers who take care of our campus is a high priority for us,” ASU Chief of Police Michael Thompson said. “We are very excited to be able to field this innovative technology that not only protects officers from hearing loss but also enhances their capabilities.”

 On first glimpse, the SoundGear Phantom devices appear to be hearing aids. But they’re actually more than that. They allow officers to hear every day sounds and conversations more clearly while offering protection from both sudden and continuous loudness.

 Over the years, police officers have been at an increased risk of noise-induced hearing loss.  This can be attributed to the variety of calls for service officers respond to daily. Fire alarms, traffic incidents, and noisy crowds put officers at risk of acute or chronic hearing damage.

 For example, fire alarms can blast up to 120 decibels while a normal conversation is at 60.  Exposure to such a loud noise, even briefly, can cause short term temporary damage. Initially the damage heals and goes away on its own, but repeated exposure can lead to permanent damage.

Typically, people are not intended to be exposed to loud noise for extended periods. Most can leave or avoid noisy areas, but public safety officers charged with responding to and addressing situations in those spaces cannot.

”While having a positive effect by reducing hearing loss risk, this ear protection will also impact officer and campus safety by enabling better communication during incidents,” Thompson said.