Are we now safe at work?
Reviewed by Jennifer K Stott

Fifty years is a long time, yet the years pass in a blink of an eye. Where are we in comparison to where we were then, in terms of the occupational protection from noise exposure and ototoxicity, other than being able to use a mobile phone like a sound level meter? The article does acknowledge the changes that have occurred, whilst considering the future steps. Clearly there are changes across the world and at different rates. The Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) has been enacted since 2002 and the Control of Noise at Work across all sectors since 2006 so, as the safety nets increase, our knowledge needs to as well. Thus, keeping up with the research and considerations into the new materials, equipment and chemicals being used is essential.

Preventing occupational hearing loss: 50 Years of Research and Recommendations from the National Institute for occupational safety and health.
Themann C, Masterson E, Peterson J, Murphy W.
SEMIN HEAR
2023;44(4):351–93.