When we think of hearing loss, many of us envision it as a natural part of aging, a gradual decline that seems almost inevitable. 

However, hearing loss can also stem from another significant source: prolonged exposure to loud noises in the workplace or through certain hobbies.

Consider the impact of a single, intense noise, such as an explosion—it can cause immediate and permanent damage to your hearing. This type of hearing loss occurs after just one exposure and results in instant, irreversible effects. 

More often than not, individuals in certain workplaces are exposed to loud sounds like this which can lead to hearing deterioration.

Another form of hearing loss can develop over time due to repeated exposure to loud sounds. This gradual process can result from everyday activities and occupational hazards, including the constant use of loud machinery or working in noisy environments for a while. 

Over the years, this continuous exposure can lead to irreversible hearing damage, often without noticeable symptoms until it’s too late.

So, what occupations and activities can put individuals at risk of noise-induced hearing loss? Let’s take a look and offer practical tips for protecting your auditory health. 

11 Jobs That Will Most Likely Damage Your Hearing Permanently

Unfortunately, hearing loss is not top of mind until it's too late. That’s why it's important to raise awareness about the importance of protecting your hearing, as well as learning about preventive measures and laws and regulations to protect your hearing health in the workplace.

Understanding the risks and implementing preventive measures is crucial for preserving your hearing for the long haul.

1. Construction Workers

Heavy machinery used by construction workers typically generates noise levels ranging from 90 to 120 decibels (dB). This is loud enough to cause hearing damage, especially with prolonged exposure, making ear protection essential for workers in these environments.

Prevention: Wear earplugs or earmuffs and take regular breaks away from the noise.

2. Musicians

Music at concerts typically ranges between 100 and 120 decibels (dB), with some rock or electronic concerts reaching as high as 130 dB near the speakers. Prolonged exposure to amplified music at high volumes can lead to hearing loss. This also applies to event organizers, stage managers and performers.

Prevention: Use musician-grade earplugs to reduce noise exposure without compromising sound quality.

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3. Airport Ground Crew

Jet engines can produce noise levels ranging from 120 to 140 decibels (dB) at close proximity, which is extremely loud. For reference, prolonged exposure to sounds at or above 85 dB can cause hearing loss over time. Short bursts of sounds above 120 dB, such as those from jet engines, can cause immediate damage to hearing without protection.

Prevention: Always wear high-quality ear protection like earmuffs or earplugs when working near planes.

4. Military Personnel

Soldiers are at high risk for hearing loss due to repeated exposure to extremely loud noises from gunfire at 140-190 dB, explosions over 160 dB, and military machinery 100-130 dB. These high decibel levels can cause immediate and permanent damage, including noise-induced hearing loss and tinnitus. 

According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), about 60% of veterans returning from combat zones have some degree of hearing loss, and approximately 30% of all veterans experience tinnitus, affecting over 2.7 million veterans. 

Prevention: Despite the availability of military-grade ear protection, continuous exposure to loud sounds in both training and combat leads to cumulative damage. Hearing protection, regular assessments, and specialized earplugs are vital for minimizing these risks.

5. Factory Workers

Heavy construction equipment such as bulldozers, excavators, cranes, and jackhammers can generate noise levels ranging from 90 to 120 decibels (dB). Other manufacturing industries such as agricultural machinery and textile machines also use loud equipment which can cause hearing damage, especially in closed environments. 

Prevention: Ensure key permissible noise exposure laws and regulations are followed and hearing protection is available. 

6. Ambulance Driver or Firefighter

Ambulance sirens typically range from 110 to 120 decibels (dB), which is loud enough to cause hearing damage with prolonged or repeated exposure. Minimizing this sound can defeat the purpose of alerting drivers and pedestrians.

Prevention: Ambulance drivers and firefighters often don’t use hearing protection due to maintaining situational awareness and clear communication. However, noise-reducing earplugs designed for first responders can help protect hearing. These earplugs lower the decibel level without completely blocking out critical sounds.

7. High-Level Athletes

Environments like stadiums and sports arenas can reach noise levels between 100 and 130 decibels (dB) during peak moments and expose athletes to high noise levels. Think of loud buzzers, loud music, and high-intensity crowds.

Prevention: Use earplugs during training or events in particularly noisy venues.

8. NASCAR Drivers

NASCAR race cars use high-performance engines reaching noise levels of 130 to 140 decibels (dB), which is similar to standing next to a jet engine during takeoff. 

Prevention: NASCAR drivers typically wear noise-canceling headsets or specialized earplugs under their helmets to protect their hearing. However, repeated long-term exposure to noise levels around 110 dB can still lead to hearing damage over time. 

9. Mining Workers

Mining workers are exposed to some of the loudest and most continuous noise environments due to the nature of the equipment and activities involved in extracting minerals from the earth. Blasting sounds to break up rock formations can produce 140 dB or higher, which can cause immediate and irreversible hearing loss without the right protective gear.

Prevention: Aside from advanced hearing protection, taking regular breaks and using soundproofing barriers can help reduce the risk of permanent hearing damage. 

10. Nightclub Workers

Nightclubs typically produce sound levels ranging from 95 to 120 decibels (dB), especially near the speakers and on the dance floor. Constant exposure to loud music and crowds can gradually damage hearing. 

Prevention: Use ear protection like noise-reducing earplugs while working in loud venues.

11. Railway Workers

Train engines can produce noise of up to 120 dB, and prolonged exposure to these high decibel levels can lead to noise-induced hearing loss and tinnitus.

Prevention: To prevent hearing damage, workers should use noise-canceling earmuffs or custom-fitted earplugs, follow safety guidelines like regular breaks and job rotation.

Laws and Regulations for Hearing Safety at Work

In the U.S., the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is responsible for protecting workers from noise-induced hearing loss. How do they do this?

Setting Permissible Exposure Limits

Currently, the noise exposure limit is set to 90 decibels (dB) over an 8-hour shift. 

Implementing Hearing Conservation Program

When workers are exposed to noise exceeding 85 dB, employers must provide hearing protection, access to annual hearing tests, and worker training on noise hazards. 

Providing adequate training

Employers should educate their employees on the risks of noise-induced hearing loss and proper use of hearing protection.

Implementing soundproofing controls 

Using soundproofing machinery, isolating noisy processes, or investing in quieter equipment to reduce overall workplace noise.

How Can You Protect Your Hearing

The cumulative impact of noise exposure can significantly increase the risk of hearing loss. It’s important to advocate for stronger hearing conservation programs in your workplace if they aren’t already in place. Additionally, taking matters into your own hands by using high-quality hearing protection during work and recreational activities can also help prevent hearing loss. 

Practice Preventive Hearing Care

Prevention is truly the best line of defense when it comes to hearing loss associated with your workplace. At Nagish, we’ve shared resources and articles on the best hearing protection devices available so that you can protect your ears on the job and on the way there.

From earplugs, noise-canceling devices, and good hearing habits, you’ll find actionable tips on how to protect your hearing.

Hearing Test

Getting regular hearing tests, especially if you work in noisy environments or are exposed to loud recreational activities, is crucial for early detection of hearing loss and prevention of further damage. 

Getting a hearing test is generally very easy and accessible for most people.

Hearing Clinics and Audiologists

A primary care physician, audiologist, or ENT (ear, nose, and throat) specialist can perform an in-clinic hearing test. Most insurance plans cover hearing tests, especially if referred by a physician.

Online and At-Home Hearing Tests

You can also find free online hearing tests as an initial screening tool. These tests usually involve listening to a series of tones or spoken words and can give a general indication of whether you need further evaluation.

Apple AirPods Pro 2

The latest Apple AirPods Pro 2 introduced a clinically validated Hearing Test feature.

Getting an online hearing test is the easiest and most affordable way to screen for hearing loss as a first step. This test takes about 5 minutes to complete and provides valid information that can be shared with a healthcare provider for informed conversations and assistance.