We are excited to have you join us for an amazing educational line up, check out the agenda below for the 2025 Conference. Please note that this agenda is subject to change.
Firefighters encounter a multitude of toxic substances in their line of duty, significantly impacting their health. NIOSH has investigated many of the exposures and health effects that are prevalent among firefighters. Ototoxic agents (carbon monoxide, hydrogen cyanide, volatile organic compounds, and metals) are some of the hazards firefighters face. Despite the risk of hearing effects, hearing testing is not consistently offered to firefighters, and when available, it is limited to pure-tone audiometry. Cases of ototoxicity may or may not include poorer hearing thresholds, but often lead to difficulties in discriminating sounds such as speech, particularly in adverse listening conditions. Unfortunately, no standardized methods are in place for monitoring hearing in individuals exposed to hazardous chemicals at work. To address this gap, the International Ototoxicity Management Group is finalizing expert consensus resources designed for occupational health and safety programs. The proposed strategies include early identification through self-report questionnaires, expanded hearing testing and vestibular screening, criteria for referral and management of cases. Continuous efforts are needed to improve protective measures and reduce these hazardous exposures firefighters face. Listen as one firefighter joins us to share his story.
