Noise Hazards at Work & Associated Health Risks

“High noise isn’t just a nuisance—it can permanently damage hearing, raise stress levels, and increase heart disease risk.”

🔊 1. Silent Threat: How Noise Impacts Health

• Permanent hearing loss (Noise‑Induced Hearing Loss, NIHL) occurs with prolonged exposure at or above 85 dB for 8+ hours; this damage is irreversible and cannot be cured by surgery or hearing aids (Osha).

• Non-auditory effects like stress, heart disease, and hypertension are strongly linked to long-term noise exposure (PMC).

• Chronic noise also triggers psychological issues: stress, anxiety, sleep disturbances, reduced concentration, and higher accident risk due to missed alarms or warnings (Seven Bel).

📊 2. Evidence – Why 85 dB Is the Critical Limit

• Occupational safety standards (NIOSH, OSHA) set 85 dB as an action level—above this, exposure must be reduced or protective measures implemented (CDC).

• Numerous studies confirm that noise exposure above 85 dB significantly increases the risk of permanent hearing loss (AIP Publishing).

• Example: In the US and Europe, workers exposed over 90 dB frequently experienced measurable hearing loss within just a few years (PMC).

🛡️ 3. Recognizing Symptoms & Workplace Safety Risks

• Early signs: tinnitus, ear pain, difficulty understanding speech, needing to shout to communicate.

• These impairments lead to increased safety hazards—workers may miss alarms or verbal warnings, increasing the chance of accidents (CDC, Osha).

🧩 4. Effective Noise Control Strategies

a. Engineering & Administrative Controls

• Use quieter equipment, machine enclosures, acoustic insulation, rotate employees to limit exposure (Osha, Osha).

• Conduct regular noise audits and benchmarking to monitor compliance.

b. Hearing Conservation Programs

• Comply with OSHA’s requirements: initiate conservation programs at 85 dB TWA, including annual audiometric testing (Osha).

• Perform fit-tests to ensure earplugs or earmuffs are worn correctly for optimal protection (Wikipedia, Wikipedia).

c. Proper Use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

• Provide certified earplugs or earmuffs that reduce noise below 85 dB (Wikipedia).

• Educate workers about correct usage, maintenance, and comfort for consistent compliance.

🎯 5. Benefits for Companies & Workers

Strategic Benefits Consequences If Ignored Healthier, more productive workforce Higher rates of irreversible hearing damage Lower insurance costs and fewer injury claims Rising compensation payouts Strong safety reputation & regulatory compliance Legal risks, decreased stakeholder trust

📌 6. Conclusion

Workplace noise exceeding 85 dB is a serious hazard—not only to hearing but to overall health and operational safety. Proactive measures like noise control, proper PPE, and structured hearing conservation programs are essential.

Worksafe Indonesia offers:

• Noise assessments and exposure monitoring

• Custom hearing conservation programs

• PPE training and fit-testing support

• Health monitoring and compliance auditing

Worksafe Indonesia – Keep Safe, Be Safe !!
Your partner for a healthy and productive workplace.

📧 septianindra@worksafeindonesia.com
🌐 www.worksafeindonesia.com
📱 +62 812‑1415‑0063