NS must provide train drivers with custom-made earplugs to prevent them from suffering (further) hearing damage. That is what trade union FNV Spoor demands. It is also essential that the transport company starts an occupational health and safety investigation into hearing complaints among these employees and carries out new noise measurements in the train.
According to the union, NS has been largely dismissing nuisance and health damage caused by noise for years. At the request of FNV Spoor, the Labor Inspectorate carried out measurements. For the inspectors, the results were no reason for further enforcement. However, a health examination would be desirable.
Meanwhile, our own research would have shown that hearing damage is extremely common among train drivers: more than a third (35 percent) have been told during a medical examination that they have a ‘noise dip’ in their hearing. 13 percent even threatened rejection because of hearing damage. Almost half of the drivers regularly have a beep or noise in their ears after a ride.
hearing loss
Prolonged exposure to (too much) noise can cause hearing loss, tinnitus and hyperacusis (auditory complaints). Reduced concentration, headaches and sleeping problems are also possible consequences.
Henri Janssen of FNV Spoor therefore considers the demands of the union justified and serious: “Hearing damage is an insidious disease that can eventually lead to major medical and social problems. These obviously have a major impact on employees and their families. But it is also important for NS itself. Younger drivers, in particular, are considering looking for another position within or outside the company, should NS take no or insufficient measures.”
It goes without saying that we take the working conditions of our colleagues very seriously. The previous investigation by the Inspectorate gave no reason for a follow-up investigation
Softer sound signals
Janssen is in favor of ‘approaching the source’, he also indicates. By this, the trade unionist means that train components can be made quieter or put down in the long term. Think of better door rubbers or softer sound signals. “But because that requires a long breath, NS will also have to protect employees individually.”
A spokesperson for NS said in response to FNV Spoor’s demands: “It goes without saying that we take the working conditions of our colleagues very seriously. The previous investigation by the Inspectorate gave no reason for a follow-up investigation. We will discuss their letter with the FNV.”
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