Assistive Listening Technology Explained: Choosing the Right Solution for Your Workplace
Creating an inclusive workplace for employees with hearing loss or who are deaf is about more than simply meeting accessibility requirements. It's about making communication easier, improving confidence and ensuring everyone can fully participate.
Many organisations recognise the important of workplace accessibility, but aren't sure where to start when it comes to supporting accessibility with hearing technology. Terms such as 'induction loops', 'portable loop systems' and 'FM systems' are used frequently and interchangeably, making it difficult to understand which solution is right for your organisation.
In this guide, we'll explain the most common types of assistive listening technology for workplaces and when each solution works best while clearing up some misconceptions along the way.
Why hearing aids aren't always enough
Modern hearing aids provide excellent support in so many situations, but they can't remove every listening challenge.
Busy offices, open-plan envioronments and speakers positioned several metres away can all make understanding speech that much more difficult.
Assistive listening technology is designed to overcome these barriers by delivering clearer speech directly to the listener.
Whether you're supporting an existing employee, planning a workplace adjustment or simply preparing your organisation to welcome future employees with hearing loss, choosing the right tech can make a significant difference.
What is assistive listening technology?
Assistive listening technology refers to systems that improve speech clarity in situations where hearing aids alone may not provide enough support.
Different technologies are designed for different environments, so understanding how they work is the first step towards creating a more inclusive workplace through tech.
Induction Loops
What are they?
An induction loop system transmits sound directly to hearing aids fitted with a telecoil (often called the "T" setting).
Instead of relying on the hearing aid's microphones to pick up speech through background noise, the loop sends a clear audio signal directly to the hearing aid, reducing the effects of distance and surrounding noise.
This makes induction loops one of the simplest and most effective accessibility solutions for shared spaces.
Best for:
- Reception desks
- Meeting rooms
- Interview rooms
- Customer service points
- Lecture theatres
- Public venues
Portable Loop Systems
What are they?
Portable loop systems provide the same benefits as a fixed induction loop but can easily be moved between locations.
They're ideal when installing a permanent system isn't practical or when flexibility is important.
For organisations with hybrid working, outreach teams or employees who regularly meet clients off-site, portable loops offer an accessible solution that can be deployed in minutes.
Best for:
- One-to-one meetings
- Temporary reception points
- Community events
- Offsite meetings and customer appointments
Radio Aids and Phonak Roger Systems
What are they?
Radio aid systems and Roger technology usually consist of a wireless microphone worn by the speaker. The speaker's voice is transmitted directly to the listener's hearing aids or receiver, helping overcome background noise and distance.
They're particularly effective when one person is presenting to a group or where participants are spread around a room. Many organisations use these systems to improve communication during meetings, staff training and presentations - they are usually very versatile and organisations can benefit from these systems in so many different scenarios.
Best for:
- Large meeting rooms
- One-to-one conversations
- Training sessions
- Presentations
- Educational settings
- Hybrid meetings
How do you choose the right hearing support technology?
Every workplace is different.
The most appropriate solution depends on factors including:
- The size of the space
- How the room is used
- Whether the system needs to be portable
- The hearing technology being used
- How many people need support
- Whether the solution is intended for employees, visitors or customers
In many organisations, a combination of technologies provides the most flexible and inclusive solution.
Investing in workplace accessibility
Creating an accessible workplace doesn't just benefit today's employees. It demonstrates your organisation's commitment to inclusion and helps ensure you're ready to support future employees, visitors and customers with hearing loss.
Whether you're fitting out a new meeting room, reviewing your accessibility provision or responding to a workplace assessment recommendation, understanding the available technology is the first step towards making informed decisions.
Need help choosing the right solution?
Selecting the right assistive listening technology doesn't have to be complicated.
Our team has helped organisations across the UK improve accessibility in workplaces, education settings and public spaces. We'll take the time to understand your environment, explain the available options and recommend solutions that meet both your users' needs and your budget.
If you'd like to discuss your project, request a quotation or explore our range of assistive listening solutions, we're here to help.
📧 Email us: info@connevans.com
📞 Call us: 01737 247571