What noise levels affect our hearing?
Noise levels are measured in decibels (dB). Sounds louder than 80 dB are considered potentially hazardous to your hearing if you are exposed to them for any length of time. The sound chart below helps you to understand what sounds occur at different frequencies and intensities.
When sound reaches an intense level, it can damage the hair cells of the inner ear. This results in a loss of electrical impulses for a range of pitches. Often the damage affects the higher frequencies or pitches first. In human speech, the consonants"t", "s", "th", and "sh" become difficult for people to hear.
Protect your hearing
Hearing plays a significant role in allowing you to connect with the important people and places in your life. Avoiding exposure to noise levels that can damage your hearing may not always be possible, but wearing hearing protection can prevent hearing loss. If you have experienced ringing or buzzing in your ears after leaving a noisy restaurant, music concert or sports stadium, then you have experienced a temporary hearing loss and may have caused permanent damage.
Protect your hearing and prevent hearing loss:
- Pay attention to noise in your home and workplace. If the sound level exceeds 80 dB, reduce the noise level or wear hearing protection.
- If you work in an at-risk occupation, check with your employer to make sure you have adequately protected your hearing according to government regulations.
- Lower the volume of your television, stereo and MP3 player/personal listening device. Take special care if you use headphones or earbuds.
- Wear earplugs if you go to concerts or nightclubs. You’ll still be able to hear the music because of the extreme volume. Take a break so your ears can rest.
- Wear headphones or earplugs if you use noisy equipment such as drills, lawnmowers, or leaf blowers.
