Posted on: April 15, 2014

Noise exposure is one of the leading causes of hearing loss. Noise induced hearing loss can come from recreational noise and work related noise exposure. Today’s blog will be focused on work related noise exposure. Some occupations are obviously noisier than others. Following are some of the potentially noisiest occupations.

Military: Military personnel are exposed to a wide variety of noise such as guns, artillery, and aircraft noise to name a few.

Manufacturing: People who work in manufacturing facilities are often exposed to large, loud machinery, which can damage hearing with prolonged exposure.

Construction: Like manufacturing, construction involves spending time near heavy machinery as well as other loud tools such as jackhammers.

Mining: Miners are also exposed to noisy equipment often in small spaces where noise can reverberate or be amplified.

Entertainment Industry: If you have ever been to a live concert you know how loud it can be. Musicians and there crews can be exposed to noise well in excess of 100 dB, which can damage hearing permanently after several hours of exposure.

Agriculture: Farmers can be exposed to loud noise from equipment and animals. For example, a pigs’ squeal can reach over 110 dB.

If you work in these or other noisy occupations you should have your hearing checked on a regular basis. Between 1-2 years is a good rule of thumb. If you are concerned about your hearing please phone Accurate Hearing at 423-7734 in Halifax or 252-3004 in Lower Sackville.