We have discussed why Hearing loops or assistive listening technologies are a requirement in new buildings and renovations. These hearing loops help transmit to those with hearing loss by sending sound sources directly and removing the background noise. Further reading: How loop systems work?
What is a Hearing Induction Loop?
A hearing loop (often called an audio induction loop) is a unique sound system used by people with hearing aids. They produce a signal that connects directly to a Telecoil-enabled hearing aid, enabling people with hearing loss to listen to clear, intelligible sound regardless of the background noise or the distance to the sound they want to hear.
Where can induction loops be used?
Hearing loops can benefit those hard of hearing in multiple environments, from large venues such as theatres and conference rooms to teaching areas, meeting spaces, and one-to-one transmissions such as reception desks and ticketing counters. They are the best sensible solution to help hearing aid users in public spaces.
Where can hearing loops be used?
- Work: Meeting and conference facilities, desks, and offices
- Schools:: Lecture halls, classrooms
- Transportation systems: Trains and bus stations, airports, and transport networks, elevators, help points, car park access points
- Vehicles: MRTS and LRTs, Taxis and private cars, minibusses, coaches, maybe boats.
- Venues: Movie Theatres, cinemas and concert halls, stadia and sports venues, places of worship, conference and lecture halls
- Point-of-Service: Counters, intercoms and entry phones, help points, and drive-through restaurants.
- Safety: Public areas, voice alarm systems
- Home: TV rooms, phones, individual car systems
Hearing loop systems are not suitable if:
- There is significant background noise, which will decrease the effectiveness of any assistive listening system.
- There is no sensible way to install the loop cable
- There is no clearly defined, intelligible audio source
- Electrical devices such as electric guitars or bass guitars are used within the area surrounded by the loop.
How do you specify an induction loop system?
Specifying which loop system is needed has traditionally been worked out by the area size. However, area size alone is not the exact condition to base specification. A professional must consider a variety of factors to specify a hearing induction loop system, such as:
- Size of the site where it will be situated to define which type of driver is required.
- Is there magnetic background noise? Electrical equipment and mains wiring can generate interference with hearing aids using the 'T' setting.
- Is there surrounding metal in the infrastructure of the building which could impact the loop signal?
- Ensure the loop signals do not overlap if there is more than one induction loop installed, as this can comprise privacy.
- Users' head positioning, standing, and seating arrangements must be considered when positioning the induction loop aerials.
Using a user-focused method founded on each area's requirements will specify and provide a loop system with a faultless listening experience.
The Hearing Enhancement System by the Listening Lab is the most professional AV distributor and is the sole provider of Induction Loops and Assistive Listening Technology Systems in Singapore. View the installation process or contact us to learn more.
