Noise & Hearing Loss

Exposure to loud noise is one of the leading of hearing loss in the United States. Standards set by OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) indicates that continued exposure to noise over 85 dBA or impulse noise exceeding 140 dB peak will harm your hearing.

Warning Signs

1. A ringing sound (tinnitus) in the ears after being exposed to noise.

2. A muffled sound to speech after noise exposure, making it difficult to understand speech when leaving a noisy area.

How can you help prevent hearing loss?

• Wear earplugs when using loud tools, household equipment, farm and lawn machinery, and when participating in noisy recreational activities.
• Pay attention to the sounds around you and turn down the volume whenever possible.
• Avoid or limit time spent in noisy sports events, rock concerts and night clubs.
• Pick up a pair of free earplugs (donated by 3M) at either of our offices during regular business hours.
• Learn how loud is too loud. Noise Is All Around Us posters, available at CBHC for a $2.00 donation, demonstrate how even common household items such as hair dryers can cause damage to hearing with prolonged exposure.
• Encourage your friends and family to protect their hearing.

Noise-induced hearing loss, though preventable, is permanent.

Click here to learn more about preventing hearing loss due to noise.

Click here to view helpful Noise Poster