DID YOU KNOW?
Each year, 22 million U.S. workers are exposed to hazardous noise levels at work. [3] Once hearing is damaged, it doesn’t come back — which is why OSHA has strict standards to prevent noise-induced hearing loss.
KNOW THE RISK
- Each year, 22 million workers are exposed to dangerous levels of noise on the job. These exposures may not seem harmful in the short term but accumulate over time. [1]
- Exposure kills the nerve endings in the inner ear, leading to permanent hearing loss. Once these nerve endings are gone, they don’t grow back. [1]
- OSHA requires hearing protection for workers exposed to an average of 85 decibels or more over an 8-hour period. [1]
MITIGATE THE RISK
1. Use Engineering Controls
- These involve physically changing equipment or processes to reduce noise at the source. Examples include enclosing noisy machinery or replacing worn parts. [1]
2. Apply Practical Solutions
- Lubricating machinery, adding vibration dampers, or isolating sound sources are simple ways to reduce overall exposure. [1]
3. Implement Administrative Controls
- Change how work is scheduled or organized — for example, rotating workers or limiting time spent in noisy areas. [1]
4. Schedule Work During Low Exposure Periods
- Operate loud equipment when fewer people are present to limit widespread exposure. [1]
HEARING SAFETY REMINDER
Noise-induced hearing loss is 100% preventable — but once it happens, it’s permanent. Use engineering and administrative controls, and always wear proper hearing protection when required. Your future hearing depends on what you do today.