Inventors selected in first-ever noise safety challenge

Words: Dr. Michaels, Nick Laperle, Jeremie Voix, Brendon Dever, Madeline BennettThree inventors were recognized for their ideas to reduce work-related hearing loss during the first 'Hear and Now - Noise Safety Challenge' hosted by the U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration and Mine Safety and Health Administration, in partnership with the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health on October 27, in Washington, D.C.

The challenge was launched with the dual goals of inspiring creative ideas and raising business awareness of the market for workplace safety innovation. Ten finalists, selected from 28 submissions to Challenge.gov, were invited to Washington, D.C., to present their solutions to reduce workplace-induced hearing loss.

"This event was an innovative way for government to help better protect workers from job-related hearing loss by connecting the entrepreneurial community with inventors developing solutions," said Assistant Secretary of Labor for Occupational Safety and Health Dr. David Michaels.

A panel of judges awarded first place to Nick Laperle and Jeremie Voix for their custom-fitted earpiece designed to provide a worker with protection, communication, and monitoring.

Brendon Dever was selected for second place for a wearable sensor technology that affixes to glasses or protective equipment such as hardhats. The sensor detects noise levels and provides warnings and other communications via color-coded lights.

Third place was awarded to Madeline Bennett for an interchangeable decorative piece that attaches to silicone earplugs. The attachments are manufactured with licensed designs for sports teams, businesses, or music festivals.

For more information and pictures, please visit the DOL Hear and Now webpage.
About: SafetyFeatured
 0
Business Building: Top Field Systems To Achieve Results!
May 2025

To be successful in the construction business, you must achieve the field results you want to achieve. Therefore, what systems and standards do you have, maintain, train, and enforce which will almost certainly guarantee you will finish your jobs on time,

George Hedley
Read More
Marvelous Masonry: The Technical Administration Building, Frankfurt, Germany
May 2025

The Technical Administration Building in Frankfurt, Germany, is a testament to masonry construction's craftsmanship and durability. This iconic structure reflects the architectural trends of its era and serves as a case study in masonry preservation and r

Cass Stern
Spotlight
Lime Natural Stone Restoration
Read More
Contractor Tip of the Month: Making Yourself Available for What Matters Most
May 2025

Your responsiveness is a key factor in achieving success in your career. Opportunities don’t wait, and neither do customers, employees, or critical decisions. Prioritizing accessibility, especially during pivotal moments, can be the difference between sec

Damian Lang Damian Lang
Featured
Read More
Fechino Files: Differences
May 2025

I recently traveled to a city where I met with several contractors. After we talked a bit, several of the folks showed me around their places, and I saw two different ways of thinking based on the employees' personalities. I am sure you are wondering wher

Steven Fechino
Featured
Read More