Concerns about hearing damage have prompted the Europe Commission to investigate noise levels from MP3 players and mobile phones. Scientists say the quality of music nowadays, means people can turn up the volume on their personal players and still get good quality audio. The EC believe people are unknowingly risking permanent hearing damage every time they use a music device.

Europe-wide limits could be introduced by fitting a maximum noise default to any music device. The noise control feature will be optional, meaning people will still be able to exceed the recommended safety level but may at least acknowledge the risks involved.

Research suggests more young people are listening to music to and from work and often push up the volume to block out background noise, and drift away from the hustle and bustle. The Royal National Institute for Deaf People said “ We’re really worried that many people don’t understand how listening to personal music players, such as MP3s and mobile phones, at high sound levels over time can affect their hearing and lead to permanent damage or premature hearing loss.”

Warnings will also be placed on products and packaging to warn people about the health risks.

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