Noisy pubs and clubs damage hearing, says charity

Nine out of ten people aged between 16 and 30 experience signs of hearing damage after a night out, according to new research.

The charity RNID found 90% of pub, club and gig-goers experienced dullness of hearing or ringing in the ears after a night on the town.

Of the 1,381 surveyed more than half visited a bar where they had to shout to be heard at least once a week and a quarter said the music in these venues was too loud and a third thought hearing loss would affect their lives.

With regular exposure to music at high volumes it's only too easy to clock up noise doses that could damage hearing ​A spokesman.

The charity is calling on the government to establish a "recommended noise exposure level" for audiences attending music venues and events.

Dr John Low, chief executive of RNID, said: "Our research shows most young people have experienced the first signs of permanent hearing damage after a night out, yet have no idea how to prevent it.​

"With regular exposure to music at high volumes in clubs, gigs and bars, it's only too easy to clock up noise doses that could damage their hearing forever."

Neil Williams of the British Beer and Pub Association said: "Steps are being taken to raise awareness.​

"A new noise regulation is due in 2008 and will cover a range of measures including how to limit the sound exposure of staff and how speakers should be positioned.

"We are working on guidance for our members."