Things You Can Do to Limit Exposure to Loud Noise

There are several things you can do to limit exposure to loud noise in both your home and your community. Why is that important? According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), noise exposure is the second leading cause of hearing loss (aging is first) with nearly 40 million US adults aged 20-69 having hearing damage in one or both ears. Nearly half (53%) of those surveyed reported that their hearing loss was not due to loud noise at work. Researchers concluded that exposure to loud sounds comes from everyday activities in their homes and communities. Ideally, the best means of prevention is to avoid the noisy situation or to use adequate hearing protection, but sometimes that is just not possible because noise is all around us. So what do you do? Here are some useful tips from CDC: Recommendations for Home

• Turn down the volume of the TV, radio, or music.
• Take listening breaks when listening to loud music.
• Use quieter products (power tools, toys, recreational vehicles) whenever they are available. (For more information, visit CDC’s Buy Quiet webpage.)
• Reduce equipment noise. Replace worn, loose, or unbalanced machine parts. Keep equipment well lubricated and maintained.
• Keep children away from loud music or equipment at home.

Recommendations for Public Events

• Move or stay far away from the loudest sound-producing source–such as loudspeakers or cannons at college stadiums–especially if attending with children.
• Limit the length of time of exposure to loud sounds.
• Pay attention to signs and information flyers warning of possible loud noise and the use of hearing protection.

Just remember if you ever need to shout to be heard, then the sound is too loud. Take control of your hearing health, and be proactive about limiting the loud noise around you.