What is the risk of noise-induced hearing loss at 80, 85, 90 dB(A) and above?
Regulations regarding risk from exposure to noise at work entail action at levels of 85 dB(A) and above. At 80 dB(A) there is no material risk in the vast majority of individuals. At 85 dB(A) there is a marginal risk with susceptible individuals accruing a significant hearing impairment from a lifetime of exposure. At 90 dB(A) and above the risk becomes material, with the majority of individuals accruing a significant hearing impairment.
Institute of Sound and Vibration Research, University of Southampton, UK. mel@isvr.soton.ac.uk
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Lutman
D006317:Hearing Loss, Noise-Induced / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000209:etiology*; D006801:Humans; D016365:Liability, Legal; D009622:Noise / Q000009:adverse effects*; D016273:Occupational Exposure / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence; D012307:Risk Factors; D006113:United Kingdom / Q000453:epidemiology