Headsets, headphones or earphones… For simplicity, in this article, we will use the term "headsets," unless a specific type of product is meant. Headsets can be used at work for various purposes: to follow webinars, conduct video conferences, mask background noise in the office, or as an ergonomic aid.
Ergonomic considerations
For example, the Dutch Practice Guideline NPR 1813 (2016) recommends a headset when making phone calls. A headset increases comfort during phone calls and also makes it possible to write or type simultaneously. When the task package includes simultaneous computer work and telephoning, a headset becomes necessary. A headset is therefore often ergonomically necessary:
- Reaching far for the phone, often in a twisted posture, leads to physical complaints in the upper limbs and/or back with frequent use.
- When manipulating the handset or portable phone, the device is often clamped between the user's shoulder and head. This causes increased tension in the shoulder joint and joint capsule. With repeated movements, this may cause shoulder complaints.
There is a wide range of headsets available. Which specific type of headset is desired results from the task analysis and consultation with the intended user(s). At the bottom of this article, we list the most common types for information. The most important properties that a headset must always meet are that it:
- is easy to adjust;
- does not put pressure on the ears;
- the microphone can be easily brought into the desired position.
To give the user more freedom of movement, a wireless headset is the best option. When the task allows, a wireless headset offers the possibility to stand and move during phone calls. This is ergonomically beneficial, as it breaks up sitting. However, the wireless range of the headset must be monitored. It is important to align the needs with the users and to request the correct technical specifications from the producer.
Safety considerations
Hearing damage:
Pay attention to the maximum noise level in the headsets. It is important to make users aware of the dangers of sound. Which sound level corresponds to which volume setting varies from headset to headset. As a rule of thumb, the volume should never be set higher than 60% of the maximum volume. The maximum volume of some headsets is equivalent to standing next to a jackhammer at 1 meter distance!
Isolation from the environment:
Another risk of wearing headsets is that the wearer is less aware (to even completely unaware) of ambient sounds. This mainly poses a problem when alarm signals or approaching (internal) traffic are not heard. It is important to check the audibility of alarm signals when wearing headsets. Moreover, employee sensitization remains crucial. Some tips:
- Passive (regular) headsets are preferred, active headsets or in-ear earbuds isolate the user even more.
- Use the headset at the lowest possible volume.
Electromagnetic fields (EMF):
Depending on the type of headset, it can produce strong electromagnetic fields (EMF). This poses a potential health risk for people with cardiovascular, actively implanted medical devices (e.g., pacemakers). This group of special employees must be taken into account, and the compatibility of the equipment must be checked.
Work equipment
Strictly speaking, a headset is work equipment, and Title 2 of Book IV of the Codex applies. This includes, among other things, carrying out a risk assessment. The points raised above are undeniable in this regard. Furthermore, we want to draw attention to the fact that a headset should best be seen as personal work equipment. In other words, a specific headset is linked to only 1 person (just as is the case with, for example, hearing protection). This is certainly the case when choosing so-called in-ear earbuds. If headsets that sit over or on the earlobes are to be used collectively, it is very important to clean the headset before or after each use. This is based on sound occupational hygiene principles and to prevent the spread of pathogens.
Instructions and training
According to the general principles concerning welfare policy (Art. I.2-7), the provision of training (or in this context, better "explanation") and instructions must not be lacking. Employees must know how to use the headset correctly and how to maintain it. Furthermore, employees must be aware of, among other things, the risks mentioned above. Finally, we advise making the complete user manual available and sharing a shortened version with the user(s). Instructions and training are provided in the user's language.
Health considerations
After conducting a literature study on the possible health effects of using headsets, three potential themes appear to be important: ear hypersensitivity, the effect of radiation, and the development of hearing damage.
Ear hypersensitivity
Prolonged wearing of a headset can in some cases cause redness, pain, or even swelling of the ear. These symptoms are often caused by an incorrectly chosen or incorrectly worn headset. It is important to tailor the choice of headset to the users and to let them test several models for a period. Instructions on how to wear the headset correctly are also indispensable.
Effect of radiation
The consensus here is that there are no immediate health-related risks attributable to radiation from headset use, according to the CDC, FDA, and the American Cancer Society.
Hearing damage
Several scientific studies show the same (positive) correlation between hearing damage (or ear-related health problems) and the use of headsets. Wearing headsets, where one is exposed to excessively high sound levels, leads to the onset of hearing damage. As mentioned in the Safety section above, sensitizing users is crucial.
Finally, it is advisable – in the same vein as screen work – that the user takes regular breaks. Should complaints arise, it is advisable to contact the prevention adviser or the occupational physician.
