Interactive dummy can save your ears from iPod volume

SHOPPERS in the Capital are to be told of the potential damage they are doing to their hearing by playing their iPods too loudly.

Specialist teams from the city council will be in the St James Centre this weekend to check the level of shoppers' personal music players and give advice on what the long-term effects could be.

An interactive dummy head with microphones within its ears and a noise meter will be used to conduct the tests.

Members of the public will be able to put their personal stereos and MP3 players on the dummy head and get free advice and information on safe listening levels.

Councillor Robert Aldridge, the city's environment leader, said: "We're highlighting personal stereos to help make people aware of the damage that can be caused to their hearing by loud noise.

"We're also keen on ensuring that there's a better awareness about domestic and industrial noise, partly from a health and safety point of view, but also because of our responsibilities on antisocial behaviour."