Here is some information about hearing and key factors you need to know that may contribute to hearing loss:
- the level of sound is measured in A-weighted decibel (dBA)
- there are no known risks to exposure of noise lower than 70 dBA, no matter how long you are exposed to it
- the risk of hearing loss increases as sound increases past 85 dBA
- the longer you are exposed to this level of noise, the greater the risk factor for hearing loss
Examples:
1. If someone is standing about 3 feet from you and they have to shout to be heard, the level of noise around you is probably about 85 dBA. Exposure to this level of sound for 8 hours or more per day increases the risk of hearing loss.
2. If someone standing about 1 foot away from you and they have to shout to be heard, the noise level around you is probably about 95 dBA. Exposure to this level of sound for only 45 minutes or more per day significantly increases the risk of hearing loss.
3. If someone has to shout in your ear to be heard, the noise level is likely around 105 dBA. This level of sound can be damaging; the risk of hearing loss at this point can occur in just 5 minutes per day!!
Other indicators of potential noise-induced hearing loss are: if after a noise has stopped you have; temporary hearing loss, things sound muffled, unclear or quieter or, if you experience ringing or buzzing in your ears, also known as tinnitus.
Here are some examples of the sounds levels you may be exposed to regularly that may contribute to a noise-induced hearing loss:
- power tools 85-113 dBA
- home and car audio 84-108 dBA
- music in bars 94-110 dBA
- personal stereo systems (i.e. ipods) 60-110 dBA
- music in fitness classes 89-96 dBA
It is important to remember that just because you are exposed to the sounds of above, doesn't mean you will develop a hearing loss but it does put you at higher risk. The length of time, the actual level of sound within the above indicated ranges and how often you are are exposed to it all play a factor in how high the risk of hearing loss is and to what degree.
How can you minimize your risk?
- limit the time you spend doing noisy leisure activities
- ensure your radio is at a safe level
- if you are exposed to loud noise and are experiencing tinnitus or temporary hearing loss, give yourself some quiet time to allow your ears to recover and rest
- wear ear protection such as earplugs or earmuffs when exposed to unsafe noise levels
- make sure these are well fitted - custom ear protection is available at York Hearing Clinic
Remember, prevention is key, you cannot undo the damage that causes noise-induced hearing loss!
Resource: Information provided by Health Canada, "Hearing Loss and Leisure Noise". January 2005.
http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/hl-vs/iyh-vsv/environ/leisure-loisirs-eng.php
