A noisy workplace can damage hearing. Prolonged exposure to loud noise can lead to permanent hearing loss. These levels are known as noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL).
How does NIHL work?
Loud noises damage the tiny hair cells in the inner ear that are crucial for hearing. Once damaged, these cells don’t regenerate, resulting in permanent hearing loss.
What level is dangerous?
Noisy workplace with noise levels above 85 decibels (dB) over an extended period can cause damage. A good rule of thumb is that if you need to shout to be heard by someone three feet away, the noise is likely above 85 dB, according to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (.gov).
Five Examples of Noisy Workplaces:
- Construction sites
- Factories
- Carpentry or woodworking shops
- Airports
- Retail stores and restaurants
Symptoms of NIHL:
NIHL can manifest as difficulty understanding speech, especially in noisy environments, difficulty hearing high-frequency sounds, and tinnitus (ringing in the ears).
Prevention is key:
Employers should implement hearing conservation programs, including noise monitoring, providing hearing protection (such as earplugs or earmuffs), and training employees on the risks associated with noise hazards. Workers should also be proactive in protecting their hearing by using appropriate PPE and reporting any concerns about noise levels.
