RNID welcomes move by Apple to set volume cap for the iPod

Editor: RNID, the UK's largest charity representing deaf and hard of hearing people, has issued a press release applauding Apple for releasing software that allows iPod users to set an upper volume limit. I haven't seen a similar statement from any of the US hearing loss organizations. Those are hopefully in the works!

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RNID - the UK's largest charity representing the 9 million deaf and hard of hearing people - today welcomes a move by Apple to introduce a software update that will allow iPod users to set an upper volume limit on the latest generations of the device.

RNID's Don't Lose the Music Campaign (http://www.dontlosethemusic.com) has been warning personal stereo users for some time that they could be risking long term damage to their hearing by turning up the volume to levels that could cause permanent hearing loss.

Brian Lamb, Director of Communications, RNID said: "RNID is delighted that Apple have responded to our Don't Lose the Music Campaign by allowing iPod users to reduce the upper volume limits and we would urge other manufacturers of personal music players to follow suit.

"Although we are encouraged by this move, there is still much more work to be done to educate both manufacturers as well as music lovers of the potential dangers of listening to personal music players too loudly. The Don't Lose the Music Campaign has already been raising awareness of this issue amongst customers, and is now very interested in working with manufacturers to ensure that warnings regarding the risk of listening to MP3 players too loudly are made more prominent both on and in the packaging of their products."

Angela King, Senior Audiologist, RNID adds: "There is a danger that long-term use of personal music players at high volume will permanently damage people' s hearing. RNID's Don't Lose the Music Campaign is urging people to be aware of the risks so they can continue to enjoy music for longer. Noise filters for in-ear headphones are available from many high street stores and regular breaks should be taken from listening."

She adds: "If you're worried that you may already have some hearing loss, you can call RNID's new telephone hearing check on 0845 600 5555"

The Don't Lose the Music Campaign doesn't want to discourage people from listening to personal stereos and enjoying music and offers the following guidelines for safer listening: