Although in many places, such as places of worship, theatres or schools, we talk about accessibility and inclusiveness, even today, in 2023, some people – because of the hearing disability they suffer from – are excluded
Hearing loss affects one sixth of the population and one third of people over 65.
In Italy alone, it is estimated that the number of people with severe and non-severe hearing impairment is 5 million, of which 250,000 are affected.
According to some research, it appears that, given the lack of attention to disability combined with low quality service, three out of four hearing impaired people have abandoned a purchase at restaurants, supermarkets, banks and transport companies.
It is clear that, in the face of these numbers, offering support to people with hearing problems becomes a priority from which no facility that wants to consider itself ‘public’ should be exempt any longer.
A need that finds an answer in the Hearing Loop system created by Contacta Systems, a British company that for over 50 years has been designing technological solutions to create inclusive environments for everyone, especially those with hearing problems.
Hearing Loops are an assistive listening technology installed in thousands of locations worldwide and provide the most sought-after accessibility to communicate freely.
Systems based on hearing loop technology enable clear and safe communication even through screens, glass or other physical barriers and even in noisy environments.
How does a Hearing Loop work?
A Hearing Loop provides a direct link to an audio source such as a microphone, sound system or television to enable people with hearing disabilities to hear clearly what they are trying to hear. Speech is picked up by a microphone, converted into a magnetic signal by an amplifier and transmitted to users via a hearing loop radio. The magnetic signal is then picked up by a telecoil inside the user’s listening device, who will then be able to hear clearly.
Contacta offers a variety of powerful and visually discreet solutions for both fixed and mobile installations. All are easy to install and easily recognised by people with impaired hearing.
Hearing Loops 1 to 1
Contacta’s 1 to 1 Hearing Loops enable the hard of hearing to communicate freely wherever there is an interaction between two people in public and commercial settings.
They help improve customer service in a variety of different applications such as bank counters, ticket counters, supermarkets, shops.
Hearing Loops for Large Areas
Hearing loops for large areas are installed in places where large numbers of people can benefit from a superior listening experience.
They are perfect for installation in theatres, classrooms, auditoriums and arenas.
Speech Transfer
Also known as Window Intercom Systems, Contacta speech transfer systems ensure optimal communication in situations where interlocutors are separated by safety glass, plexiglass or other physical barriers.
A complete Speech Transfer system comprises an amplifier, high-quality speakers and well-positioned microphones.
In addition to excellent audio performance, every system of this type incorporates induction loop support, which allows it to be extended for use by hearing aid wearers.
Infrared
Contacta infrared systems use light in the non-visible spectrum to transport the audio signal from a transmitter to the receivers.
The infrared light is distributed evenly over the entire area, allowing end users to position themselves anywhere in the room to receive the signal correctly.
These systems are ideal for situations where conversations must remain confidential and in environments where people move around positioning themselves in front of different sound sources, such as an exhibition or interactive installation.
Radio Frequency
The radio frequency wireless systems designed by Contacta allow the audio signal to be transmitted to all connected receivers, even in large areas.
These products exist both in portable versions, intended for mobile use, and in rack versions, designed specifically for fixed installations, to meet all coverage requirements.
Portable systems are also used as a solution for guided tours in tourist sites, museums, cities.
Radio frequency technology enables uniform signal transmission even outdoors and in the presence of obstacles such as walls, glass or ceilings.
Thanks to the experience gained in the field of Hearing Loop systems dedicated to the hearing impaired, especially in projects carried out at theatres in Emilia-Romagna and in some parishes, Audiosales supports its partners in designing installations for assisted listening and in choosing the best solutions.
The installations of the Contacta system carried out at the theatres in Emilia-Romagna, including the Bonci Theatre in Cesena and the Arena del Sole in Bologna, were made possible thanks to the important contribution of the FIADDA Emilia-Romagna association, a body that works to protect the rights of the hearing impaired and their families.
Bonci theatre: https://www.audiosales.it/blog/con-l-installazione-del-sistema-contacta-il-teatro-bonci-schiude-il-sipario-agli-ipoudenti-
