Extended exposure to noise can contribute to hearing loss. By learning more about noise and how to protect your hearing, you can prevent noise-induced hearing loss.

Do you know how loud the sounds are around you?

Loudness is measured in decibels. Here are the decibel (dB) levels of common sounds:

• 60 dB: Conversations, dishwasher
• 70 dB: Busy traffic, vacuum cleaner
• 80 dB: Alarm clock, busy street
• 90 dB: Lawnmower, shop tools, truck traffic, subway
• 100 dB: Snowmobile, chainsaw, pneumatic drill
• 110 dB: Rock music, model airplane
• 120 dB: Jet plane take-off, car stereo, band practice
• 130 dB: Jackhammer
• 140 dB: Firearms, air raid siren, jet engine

How can you tell when noise is too loud?

Noise is too loud when:

• You have to shout to be heard.
• You can’t hear someone talking to you from three feet away.
• Others can hear the sound coming from your headset or earbuds.

You can also use a smartwatch, smartphone or tablet to monitor noise levels. Check out your device’s hearing health apps or look for sound level monitoring apps in your preferred app store.

What can you do to protect your hearing?

• Limit how long you are exposed. Noise that is 100 dB may affect hearing in as little as 14 minutes.
• Turn down the volume on earbuds and headphones. Follow the 60/60 rule: limit listening at 60% volume to no more than 60 minutes.
• Wear hearing protection. There are many options available. Pick what is comfortable and convenient to carry with you, so you are always prepared.

For more information on the importance of hearing health, please contact us.