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Noise Induced Hearing Loss


The hearing loss that is caused due to excessive exposure to loud sound is the noise induced hearing loss. NIHL can be sudden or it can take long time to be noticeable. It can be temporary or permanent. The type and the amount of noise exposure may differentially damage the middle ear or the inner ear structure .Exposure to short duration high intensity noise may result in the damage to middle ear where as a continuous noise for a prolong duration may result in the damage to the structure .

What is “Noise” ?

Noise is any unwanted unpleasant or loud sound that disrupts hearing. Exposure to continuous noise of 85-90db ,over a life time in industrial settings, can lead to a progressive loss of hearing .

Effects of noise on daily living

Noise disturbs activities and communication ,causing annoyance may lead to stress responses, then symptoms possibly illness .Noise disturbs sleep and may increase blood pressure, heart rate, and finger pulse amplitude as well as body movement.

Noise and hearing loss

The hearing loss from excessive noise is a predominant occupational concern. Workplace accident and injuries also can increase due to excessive noise, as workers may not hear warning signal and reduced capability to localize the source of sound. Hearing loss can be preventable through taking appropriate safety measures, such as wearing earplugs or reducing the volume of noise.

Sources of noise

Community noise

All noise emitted from all sources except noise at the industrial workplace.



Main source of community noise includes :

  • Road Traffic noise

  • Noise from rail roads

  • Aircraft noise

  • Construction noise

  • Noise in building

  • Noise from consumer products

  • Noise in and around home

Machinery noise :

  • Plumbing

  • AC

  • Telephone

  • Water heater

  • Dish washer

  • Acoustic fan

  • Refrigerator

  • Gas fire

Minor appliances and small machinery

  • Fan heater

  • Vacuum heater

  • Knife sharpener

  • Hair dryer

  • Electric grinder

  • Radio, tape player

  • Whistling kettle

People and animals

  • Singing, shouting, and parting

  • Fights

  • Dog barks

  • Musical instruments

  • Fire works

  • Car

  • Children

  • Hand tools