Induction Loop's (Hearing Assistance Systems)

Disability Discrimination Act (DDA) 1995

The act states that service providers cannot discriminate against deaf people by refusing to provide a service, or by offering a service of lower standard, on the grounds of their hearing loss. The law applies equally to staff who for example should not miss out on training sessions or meetings because they cannot hear what is being said. Service providers who don't comply with the requirements of the DDA are liable to be prosecuted; the DDA was further extended in 2005 to cover private clubs and leisure facilities.

Service providers must now install permanent Induction Loop systems where it is impossible or unreasonably difficult for a deaf or hard of hearing person to make use of a facility. Service providers include: Telecommunications and Broadcasting Organisations, Public Utility Companies, Hospitals, Health Centres, Banks, Bus and Railway Stations, Shops, Hotels, Schools etc.

Building Regulations Act (1982)

This states that newly built and substantially reconstructed non-domestic buildings must have aids for the hearing impaired. Areas in excess of 100m sq. where a glass screen separates the customers requires such aids.

What is a Room Loop?

A room loop consists of a dedicated Loop Amplifier, at least one microphone and a length of cable that is run around the perimeter of the room which acts as an aerial. A magnetic signal is transmitted into the room that can be picked up by a hearing aid switched to the “T” position.

In some instances where privacy is important it may be necessary to use a Infra-red system where by the signal will not spill over to outside the room like conventional loop systems.

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What is an Infra-red System?

Infra-red systems use invisible infra-red light to carry sound to special receivers worn by listeners. Hearing Aid users are required to wear 'neck-loop' type receivers that transmit a local loop field signal to their hearing aid when switched to the “T” position.

T. G. Baler (Sound) Ltd have many years experience in this particular field and can design, supply and install bespoke Hearing Assistance Systems for all venue types. A free Survey and Proposal service is available on request.

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