Continued Use of Hearing Loops in Public Spaces
Statement on Use of Induction Loops in Public Spaces
Version: v0.1 DRAFT
Date Created: 9/10/2024
Next Review Due: 9/10/2025
Approval Status: Approved
Introduction
Hearing loops, also known as induction loops, are a vital assistive technology that enhances accessibility for individuals with hearing loss in public spaces. This system transmits sound directly to hearing aids and cochlear implants equipped with telecoil (T-coil) technology, reducing background noise and improving speech clarity.
Hearing loops offer an inclusive and dignified listening experience, helping people with hearing loss can participate fully in public life.
Key Benefits of Hearing Loops
The simple technology incorporated in hearing loops provide a range of benefits[1] for people with hearing loss and for venues installing them.
Benefits for People with Hearing Loss
- Ease of Use: Users can simply switch their devices to the telecoil setting for clear sound without the need for extra equipment or assistance.
- Improved Sound: Hearing loops cut out background noise and deliver clear, direct sound, enhancing speech comprehension.
- Customised Sound: Individuals can adjust their hearing aids to suit their personal preferences, ensuring a tailored listening experience.
- Discreet: Hearing loops allow users to participate without visibly identifying as hearing impaired, encouraging inclusion.
- Hygiene: Users avoid sharing headsets or earbuds, reducing sanitation concerns.
- Increased Independence: Hearing loops enable people to engage independently in public settings without needing communication assistance.
- Seamless Integration: Compatible with many venues, hearing loops work with existing audio systems, enhancing access in theatres, airports, classrooms, etc.
- Social Inclusion: Hearing loops promote equal participation in events and discussions.
- Universal Accessibility: Compatible with various hearing devices, they cater to diverse needs, promoting inclusivity.
- Equal Opportunity: Hearing loops offer equal access to education, employment, and entertainment.
Benefits for Venues
- Compliance: Hearing loops help venues meet Australian accessibility standards.
- Efficiency: Users connect independently, reducing the need for staff assistance.
- Hygiene: Less shared equipment means reduced hygiene risks.
- Enhanced Experience: Clear sound improves audience satisfaction at events.
- Positive Reputation: Accessible venues attract positive word-of-mouth recommendations.
- Increased Inclusivity: Aligns with social responsibility and promotes broader access.
- Cost Savings: Initial investment in hearing loops leads to long-term savings due to minimal maintenance.
- Increased Patronage: Accessible venues attract a wider audience, including people with hearing loss, boosting revenue.
Competing Technologies
While new technologies like Bluetooth LE[2], Auracast[3] and Wi-Fi[4] audio systems are being explored as alternatives to hearing loops, they are not yet ready to replace the tried-and-tested induction loop system. One of the key issues is accessibility.
Bluetooth and Wi-Fi systems often require users to download apps, pair devices, or use specialised receivers, which can be cumbersome and exclusionary for older adults or those unfamiliar with digital technology.
Another limitation is sound quality and reliability. Bluetooth and Wi-Fi systems can suffer from latency, connectivity issues, and interference, particularly in larger venues with multiple users. This can result in lagging audio or signal loss, which compromises the listening experience. In contrast, hearing loops deliver consistent, high-quality sound directly to the user’s hearing device without background noise or delay.
Auracast, while promising, is not yet ready to replace hearing loops because it will take years for the technology to become widely available and integrated into public venues and hearing devices[5].
Additionally, it requires users to rely on smartphones or other devices to connect, which is more complex than the seamless experience of switching a hearing aid to the telecoil setting with hearing loops.
In contrast, hearing loops offer a seamless and user-friendly experience, allowing individuals to instantly receive sound through their telecoil-equipped hearing aids or cochlear implants without additional equipment or setup.
Moreover, while newer systems may require regular updates and technical maintenance, hearing loops are robust, with minimal upkeep once installed. This makes them a cost-effective, durable solution that continues to outperform its competitors in practical applications.
BHA’s Position
Better Hearing Australia (BHA) advocates for the widespread installation and use of hearing loops in public spaces across Australia. We believe that this simple, yet effective technology should be prioritised to ensure that people with hearing loss have equal access to services and events.
Advocacy
We call on government bodies, businesses, and venue operators to recognise the value of hearing loops and commit to their implementation. We call on audiology industry members, including manufacturers and audiology professionals to offer increased education and awareness about the benefits of hearing loops. This will ensure their continued adoption, fostering a more inclusive society for people with hearing loss.
[1] https://bhabrisbane.org.au/hearing-loops-accessibility/
[2] https://www.healthyhearing.com/help/hearing-aids/bluetooth
[3] https://www.bluetooth.com/auracast/
[4] https://www.hearinglink.org/technology/audio-over-wi-fi/
[5] https://www.audiologyonline.com/articles/20q-auracast-28985
