21 Oct What looks good on paper might not make the grade

Installing a hearing loop can appear very straight-forward, and on paper, it is.  Drawings and guidance from a manufacturer suggest the correct layout and set up needed to provide clarity of sound for hearing device users.

This is only part of the story, however.

Hearing loops have a performance standard that every system should achieve.  It’s there to ensure if a hearing aid user switches their device to the ‘T’ setting, they receive sound to their device that’s the right quality and amplification.  Following an installation plan won’t necessarily achieve that on its own.

“With an assistive listening solution, the focus should move beyond simply asking, ‘have the manufacturer’s drawings been followed?’  says Rich Hurn, Contacta’s Senior Business Development and Account Manager.

“The more important question is: ‘can the system achieve the required standard in this specific environment?’”

The first step in answering this question is to carry out a site survey.  This is an assessment of the building, its structure and any interior fittings that could affect the strength of the loop signal or cause interference.

“This is where you really see the value of a specialist engineer,” says Rich.  “They will lay a test loop to check for any metal loss. Only once this has been completed can drawings and a 3D signal visualisation be produced, so you can clearly see the signal strength and how much of the room that covers.”

This information is also key in helping venues understand the quote.  They can see how the loop is expected to perform and any specialist layouts, or additional or more powerful loop drivers that are needed to provide a signal to the correct strength.

Even after installation, engineers should carry out testing across the entire listening area using an Audio Frequency Induction Loop Strength (AFILS) meter.

Rich says the responsibility for making sure a loop performs to the correct standard for users lies initially with the engineer.

“The short answer is, whoever has installed the hearing loop is responsible for making sure it meets the IEC 60118-4 international performance standard,” says Rich.  “Once the loop has been tested, the engineer should provide a commissioning certificate of compliance.

“We would always recommend venues choose a specialist design and installation company so that they know from the beginning the system meets users’ needs.  And have a regular testing and maintenance schedule in place so you know your investment is performing as it should. 

“Customers aren’t always going to tell you if your hearing loop isn’t working.  They’re more likely to just take their custom elsewhere.”

If you’d like to know more about the installation process for hearing loops, or any other assistive listening systems, our team are here to help.  Email us or call us on 01732 223900.