Hearing loss is a serious but preventable condition that can affect anyone. Most damage due to noise is gradual over time and is often ignored. Damage can also occur from a single loud impulse noise such as an explosion, this can be immediate and severe. Loud noise exposure can also cause tinnitus (ringing, buzzing, or roaring in the ears).
How loud is too loud?
Normal conversation - 60 decibels
Electric Vacuum – 80 decibels
Recommended maximum for 8-hour time-weighted average – 85 decibels
Motorcycle - 95 decibels
Circular saw - 100-105 decibels
Music with headphones at max level - 105 decibels
Sirens – 120 decibels
Prevent hearing damage by:
- Eliminating exposure – remove yourself from the area or eliminate excess noise.
- Using sound barriers, enclosures, & noise dampeners can lower noise levels.
- Training on hearing protection, job rotation, breaks, and routine maintenance.
- PPE – the last line of defense. After the other controls are utilized, the noise level will determine the type of ear protection you can use. Between 85 and 100 decibels use earplugs. Over 100 decibels would require double ear protection, such as earplugs and earmuffs.
Questions? Contact Heidi Fleming at heidi.fleming@desales.edu