The recent discussions on physical problems, some quite serious, have hopefully made all of us think about taking more precautionary measures for our health. What I used to think of as an option, I now view differently. Brent, I am sorry for the problems you are experiencing and I appreciate your alert to all of us. We will be thinking about you and wishing you strength and comfort. Environmental hazards, such as loud noises, affect people differently, according to my audiologist. One piano technician may tune for 25 years and never experience tinnitus, while another may tune in a similar fashion for just a few years and experience hearing damage. Diet, rest, stress and other ingredients in our daily life can play a part in our bodies ability to heal and cope. Other physical damages can result from our profession in which there is so much repetitive use. And yet, it is necessary to try to tune 4 or more pianos in a day in order to make a decent income. Often, a couple of these tunings will be pitch raises and there the repetition of motion and sound impact increases. Then, on top of all this, for CAUT techs we do most of our work in small rooms where the db level may be even greater! It makes me think about what I charge per tuning! I have made an appointment with an ENT and the audiologist and I will take every step necessary to avert any further damage now that I have heard from some of you. I used to think of hearing protection as something I probably should do. Now, I see it as an absolutely essential, non-optional part of my equipment and daily routine. Thanks for the input!! Like Brent said, this topic should be front cover of the journal and not just once, but periodically. Lest we forget... Bob Hull __________________________________ Yahoo! Mail - PC Magazine Editors' Choice 2005 http://mail.yahoo.com
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