Lately it seems that whenever I use a public restroom they have very loud electric hand dryers instead of or in addition to paper towels.
Some of these hand dryers exceed 90 decibels, well above the level that can cause hearing loss. Very unpleasant.
I encourage you not to expose yourself to this noise. If possible, use paper towels. If there are no towels available, I would encourage you to avoid the electric hand dryers.
Not only are the dryers uncomfortably loud but that the air that comes out of the hand dryers contains more germs and bacteria than you just washed off. I frequently leave the restroom with damp hands. It seems like the best alternative.
It never hurts to complain to the store management. If they get enough complaints, they might actually take care of the problem.
Give us a call. I would be happy to help you if you are having hearing difficulties.
Susan E. Terry, Au.D., F-AAA
Doctor of Audiology
Board Certified
P.S. We are here to help, if you have any questions about your hearing feel free to give us a call at 727-323-2471.