About a quarter of American workers face hazardous noise levels

Many American workers face dangerous noise levels at their jobs every day. Loud noises at work can cause hearing loss and other health problems. Workers in industries like construction, manufacturing and entertainment often deal with these harmful sounds. Industries with loud noise levels Several industries have high levels of noise. Construction workers use loud machines like jackhammers and power saws. Factory workers often work near loud machinery for long hours. Musicians and stagehands at concerts deal with loud music and sound systems. These workers face loud noises that can hurt their hearing over time. Health risks of loud noises Loud noises can cause many health problems. The most common issue is hearing loss. This can happen gradually or suddenly, depending on the noise level and exposure time. Workers might also experience tinnitus. Tinnitus involves ringing in the ears. Loud noise can also increase stress, leading to other health problems like high blood pressure and heart disease. Preventative measures Employers need to protect their workers from loud noise. They can start by measuring the noise levels in the workplace. If the noise is too loud, they must find ways to reduce it. This can include using quieter machines, adding barriers between the noise and the workers or limiting the time workers spend near loud noises. Employers should also provide hearing protection and make sure workers know how to use them properly. Per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, about 25% of American workers face dangerous noise levels on the job, with about 14 million facing these conditions within the last year. Understanding the dangers of loud noise and knowing how to protect against it can prevent many health issues. It can also improve the quality of life for workers in noisy industries.The post About a quarter of American workers face hazardous noise levels first appeared on Kiwan & Chambers, APC.