Universal Safety Practices Workshop

Sound and noise are measured using decibels(dB). A normal conversation is roughly 60 decibels. Exposure to sounds at 85 decibels or above can increase the risk of hearing loss over long periods of time. City traffic is 85 decibels, according to the National Institute of Deafness and other Communication Disorders.

Louder noise levels require less exposure time before resulting in hearing loss. Noise-induced hearing loss is a clear danger when employees work in environments at 85 decibels or more. OSHA recommends short-term levels of 115 decibels, for no more than 15-minute stretches. To ensure the safety of employees, employers need to assess the noise levels and take the necessary precautions to protect hearing in the work environment.