Key takeaways
- 22 million US workers exposed yearly.
- NIOSH limit: 85 dB for 8 hours.
- Raised-voice test: too loud.
- Wear fitted protection.
- Get annual hearing tests.
If your job is loud, your hearing is on the line every shift. The good news: noise damage is preventable.
Workplace noise limits
| Standard | Limit | What it means |
|---|---|---|
| NIOSH recommendation | 85 dBA for 8 hours | Safe time halves every 3 dB |
| OSHA action level | 85 dBA (8-hour average) | Hearing conservation program required |
| OSHA legal limit | 90 dBA (8-hour average) | Controls required |
High-risk jobs
- Construction and carpentry
- Manufacturing and factory work
- Mining and agriculture
- Transportation and aviation
- Military
- Music, events and entertainment
Is your workplace too loud?
- You must raise your voice to talk to someone an arm's length away
- Your ears ring after work
- Sounds seem muffled after your shift
How to protect your hearing at work
- Wear earplugs or earmuffs every time, properly fitted
- Take quiet breaks away from noise
- Ask about quieter equipment or barriers
- Get a baseline and annual hearing test
- Avoid loud noise on your days off to let your ears rest
Tinnitrol can support ear health and focus from the inside, alongside, never instead of, proper hearing protection.
Sources
- CDC / NIOSH – "Noise and occupational hearing loss."
- OSHA – "Occupational noise exposure" (29 CFR 1910.95).
- NIDCD – "Noise-induced hearing loss."
Common questions
What is a safe noise level at work?
NIOSH recommends no more than 85 dB averaged over 8 hours.
How do I know if work is too loud?
If you must raise your voice to be heard at arm's length.
Is noise-induced hearing loss permanent?
Yes, but it is preventable with hearing protection.