Have you ever wondered how the everyday sounds around you affect your health? In a world where noise seems to surround us from all sides, it is crucial that you feel are aware of the impact that harmful noise on your well-being. From the buzzing sound of traffic outside your window to the thumping bass at concerts; these sounds go beyond mere background noise.
They carry the risk of hearing damagee entails, a problem that is increasingly common but still receives too little attention.
The World Health Organisation warns that millions of people worldwide are exposed to noise levels that are potentially harmful to their hearing. It is therefore essential to recognise the signs of harmful noise and know how to protect yourself.
Harmful noise, defined by experts, refers to noise levels that are 85 decibels (dB) or higher and, with prolonged exposure, significantly increase the risk of hearing damage.
By comparison, normal conversations take place around 60 dB, while a jet plane taking off can produce a noise level of around 120 dB. The distinction between ambient and harmful noise therefore lies not only in the volume, but also in the duration of exposure and the possibility of hearing damage.
Ambient noise, on the other hand, includes the everyday sounds that surround us, such as conversations, background music, or the sounds of nature. These sounds rarely reach levels considered harmful unless they intensify to a point where they can affect well-being or health.
It is crucial to recognise these differences and take appropriate action to protect our hearing from exposure to harmful noise.
In our daily environment, we are exposed to various sources of harmful noise, which can cause hearing damage when exposed for prolonged or intense periods.
Below is a table with examples of harmful noise and estimated decibel levels:
| Source of noise | Estimated Decibel Levels (dB) | Possible Consequences |
| Industrial machinery | 90 - 120 dB | Hearing damage with prolonged exposure |
| City traffic | 70 - 85 dB | Fatigue, stress on prolonged exposure |
| Train | 80 - 100 dB | Temporary hearing loss, hearing damage |
| Aircraft on take-off | 120 - 140 dB | Immediate risk of hearing damage |
| Concerts/festivals | 100 - 120 dB | Temporary to permanent hearing loss |
| Personal audio equipment | 70 - 100 dB | Hearing damage with prolonged exposure at high volume |
| Household appliances | 60 - 90 dB | Risk of hearing damage with prolonged exposure |
In the workplace, exposure to harmful noise constitutes a significant risk for workers' health, especially in sectors such as industry, construction, and agriculture.
These environments are often the scene of machinery and equipment that produce noise levels well above the safe limit of 85 decibels (dB). Prolonged exposure without adequate hearing protection can lead to irreversible hearing damage.
The effects of exposure to harmful noise can range from temporary symptoms to permanent hearing damage:
In the fight against the invisible threat of noise in the workplace, the choice and proper use of hearing protection is essential. This starts with thorough instruction and raising awareness. Ronell, with its nationwide network of hearing experts, responds to this by organising toolbox meetings on site. These sessions, delivered by experienced consultants, not only increase knowledge about the causes and effects of harmful noise, but also actively engage employees in finding practical solutions. This approach ensures that employees recognise the need for hearing protection and are motivated to apply it consistently.
Specifically, Ronell's toolboxes focus on the construction industry, known for its high noise levels, where the need for effective hearing protection is crucial. Combining knowledge, practicality, and commitment, Ronell offers a new standard in hearing protection that ensures workers' health and safety, and contributes to higher productivity and satisfaction.
Ronell toolboxes cover crucial topics such as how hearing works, causes and consequences of hearing damage, and the importance of preventive measures and proper use of hearing protection. Interactive presentations with recognisable examples engage employees directly, enhancing the learning experience.
Ronell integrates educational sessions with practical activities, such as leak testing and fitting professional hearing protection, so that employees benefit directly from the knowledge gained. This not only emphasises the importance of hearing protection, but also facilitates its implementation for a safe working environment.