Work-related noise-induced hearing loss is a preventable but irreversible condition that affects many Australian workers.

Too much noise: a definition

“In the model WHS Regulations the exposure standard for noise involves two measures: * LAeq,8h of 85 dB(A), * LC,peak of 140 dB(C). “

LAeq,8h of 85 dB(A) means that over an eight-hour shift a worker can’t be exposed to more than 85 decibels. Whether this is exceeded depends on the level of noise involved and how long a worker is exposed to it.

LCpeak of 140 dB(C) means a worker can’t be exposed to a noise level above 140 decibels. Peak noise levels greater than this usually occur with impact or explosive noise such as sledge-hammering or a gun shot. Any exposure above this peak can create almost instant damage to hearing.

Length of time a person without hearing protection can be exposed before the standard 85 dB is exceeded

80dB 16 hours, 82dB 12 hours, 85dB 8 hours, 88dB 4 hours, 91dB 2 hours, 94dB 1 hour, 97dB 30 minutes, 100dB 15 minutes, 103dB 7.5 minutes, 106dB 3.8 minutes, 109dB 1.9 minutes, 112dB 57 seconds, 115dB 28.8 seconds, 118dB 14.4 seconds, 121dB 7.2 seconds, 124dB 3.6 seconds, 127dB 1.8 seconds

“140dB Jet engine at 30 m, 130dB Rivet hammer (pain can be felt at this threshold), 120dB Rock drill, 110 Chainsaw 100dB Sheet-metal workshop, 90dB Lawnmower, 85dB Front-end loader, 80 Kerbside: Heavy traffic, 70dB Loud conversation, 60dB Normal conversation, 40dB Quiet radio music, 30dB Whispering, 0 Hearing threshold ”