Health effects from noise exposure

Prolonged exposure to high levels of noise at work can result in several adverse health effects. One of the most common issues is noise-induced hearing loss. Additionally, noise exposure can increase stress levels, potentially contributing to other health problems.

Noise-induced hearing loss

Hearing loss from prolonged exposure to high levels of noise at work can be temporary or permanent, depending on the noise’s intensity and duration. This condition can significantly impact communication and overall quality of life. Additionally, constant exposure to loud noise can cause tinnitus, a persistent ringing or buzzing in the ears that can be both distracting and distressing.

Illustration of permissible exposure time before increased risk of hearing loss in relation to sound intensities. ^{© University of Bergen/Arjun Ahluwalia}

The figure illustrates the maximum permissible exposure duration to various noise levels before the risk of noise-induced hearing loss increases. For an eight-hour workday, the ears can tolerate noise levels up to 85 dB. Since the decibel scale is logarithmic, an increase of 3 dB corresponds to a doubling of sound pressure, requiring the exposure time to be halved. Exposure to sound levels above 130 dB can cause acute and irreversible hearing damage.

In this small scale metal industry the mean noise exposure level was 106 dB, ranging from 85 – 118.5 dB, in 161 personal noise measurements. ^{© G. Tjalvin}

Audiometry

Audiometry is a type of hearing test that should be regularly performed for workers exposed to noise at work because it helps detect early signs of hearing loss, allowing for timely intervention and prevention of further damage. Regular audiometric testing can identify shifts in hearing thresholds, indicating the onset of noise-induced hearing loss. This proactive approach not only protects workers’ hearing health but also ensures compliance with occupational safety regulations, ultimately contributing to a safer and more productive work environment.

The process of conducting audiometry involves having workers listen to a series of tones at various frequencies and volumes through headphones in a controlled environment. They indicate when they can hear each sound, and the results are plotted on an audiogram. This test is typically performed annually or more frequently if significant noise exposure is detected.

In this audiogram, which suggests noise-induced hearing loss, the person needs 60–70 dB at frequencies of 3000, 4000, 6000, and 8000 Hz to hear the sound. In contrast, a young person with no hearing impairment will typically hear all frequencies at 20 dB or less. ^{© University of Bergen/Arjun Ahluwalia}

Other health effects related to noise exposure

Beyond hearing-related problems, noise exposure can also lead to increased stress levels, which may contribute to other health issues such as high blood pressure, heart disease, and sleep disturbances. The stress from noise can reduce concentration and productivity, making it harder to perform tasks efficiently and safely. In some cases, excessive noise can even lead to psychological effects, including anxiety and irritability. Therefore, it is crucial to implement effective noise control measures and provide appropriate hearing protection to mitigate these health risks in the workplace.