Beverly Hills Hearing Center was founded in 1983 by Bonnie Baehr. Prior to that, Dr. Baehr practiced at the House Ear Clinic in Los Angeles as a staff audiologist for seven years. She was involved with diagnostic testing, hearing aid evaluations, research and rehabilitation. Dr. Baehr did her clinical fellowship training at the Veterans Administration Outpatient Clinic in downtown Los Angeles. She is a member of the American Academy of Audiology, American Speech Language and Hearing Association, California Academy of Audiology and Academy of Doctors of Audiology.
Latest posts by Bonnie L. Baehr, Au.D. (see all)
- How Modern Hearing Aids Restore Confidence, Not Just Sound - December 5, 2025
- The Relationship Between Hearing Health and Cognitive Decline - November 26, 2025
- Occupational Hearing Loss: High-Risk Jobs and Preventive Measures - November 15, 2025
The unfortunate truth is that most of us don’t think about our hearing until we start coping with hearing loss. Millions of workers put themselves and their hearing in jeopardy by the simple fact of the environments in which they work. Occupational hearing loss is hearing damage caused by repeated exposure to loud noises during the course of performing work duties.
This blog will detail which jobs present the highest risk for hearing loss and what can be done to prevent occupational hearing loss.
What Is Occupational Hearing Loss?
Occupational hearing loss can occur from repeated exposure to loud noises while at work or a single event occurring suddenly. The most common cause of hearing loss is long-term exposure to unhealthy sound levels.
When sound rises to 85 decibels (dB) it becomes dangerous and can damage hearing. Listed below are typical volumes for various sounds:
- Normal conversation = 60 dB
- Lawnmower = 90 dB
- Chainsaw = 110 dB
- Jet engine at takeoff = 130 dB
How Noise Damages Hearing
In the inner ear, tiny hair-like cells process sound and send signals to the brain. When exposed to loud noise, these cells can become damaged. Once they are damaged, they cannot be repaired or replaced. Damage to the inner ear can lead to:
- Permanent hearing loss
- Tinnitus
- Difficulty understanding speech, especially in noisy places
- Feeling isolated
High-Risk Jobs for Hearing Loss
There are many jobs that have loud sounds associated with them, but the list below provides the highest risk for hearing damage:
Construction
Construction workers are often exposed to:
- Jackhammers
- Power tools
- Heavy machinery
- Loud engines
These noises can go well over 100 dB, especially in confined structural spaces.
Manufacturing and Factories
Workers operating in factory or manufacturing jobs are sometimes exposed to unsafe noise for more than eight hours a day. This puts them at risk for hearing loss.
Aviation and Transportation
Airport ground crews are near loud jet engines. Even with protection, the constant roar of engines can affect hearing over time. Train and truck drivers may also be exposed to engine and road noise.
Mining and Oil/Gas Work
Underground and offshore work often involves loud drills, pumps, and explosions. The noise in mines can echo, making it even worse for hearing.
Farming and Agriculture
Farmers often use tractors, harvesters, and other large machines for long hours. These machines can create uninterrupted noise above safe levels.
Music and Entertainment
Musicians, concert staff, and sound engineers are exposed to high-volume music, sometimes above 120 dB. Even short exposure without hearing protection can be harmful.
Preventive Measures to Protect Workers
The good news is that occupational hearing loss is almost always preventable. Here are key steps workers and employers can take:
Use Hearing Protection Devices (HPDs)
There are several types of ear protection:
- Earplugs: Fit into the ear canal and are good for long wear.
- Earmuffs: Cover the entire ear and block out more noise.
- Custom-fit plugs: Made by an audiologist for better fit and comfort.
Employers should provide the right protection based on the noise level and task.
Follow “The 85 dB Rule”
If the workplace has sound levels over 85 dB for 8 hours, hearing protection is required. The louder the noise, the shorter the safe exposure time.
Get Regular Hearing Tests
Workers should have annual hearing tests to detect early signs of hearing damage. Employers can offer these as part of a hearing conservation program.
Reduce Noise at the Source
Businesses can invest in quieter equipment, sound barriers, or noise-dampening materials to lower the overall noise in the workspace.
Rotate Job Assignments
Limiting how long a person spends in a noisy area each day can reduce risk. Rotating jobs or taking quiet breaks can help ears recover.
Train Employees on Hearing Safety
Everyone should understand:
- The dangers of workplace noise
- How to wear hearing protection correctly
- Why reporting hearing problems early is important
Why Prevention Matters
Once hearing is damaged, it cannot be repaired. Preventing hearing loss is much easier than treating it. That’s why it’s essential for employers to:
- Create a hearing conservation program
- Monitor workplace noise
- Offer protective gear
- Provide education and training
Protecting hearing also helps with productivity, safety, and employee satisfaction.
Final Thoughts
Occupational hearing loss is a serious but preventable problem in many industries. With the right steps, workers can stay safe while still doing their jobs. Whether you’re using a jackhammer, flying planes, or working in a factory, protecting your hearing should be a top priority.
If you’re an employee in a noisy job, speak with your manager or HR team about hearing protection and testing. If you’re an employer, consider having a noise assessment done and create a hearing safety plan. Everyone deserves to work in a safe and healthy environment — and that includes protecting the sense of hearing for life.