The factory is very loud. At what point does noise damage my hearing?

Under the Control of Noise at Work Regulations 2005, your employer must: - Assess noise levels in the workplace - Provide hearing protection if noise exceeds 80 dB (lower action level) - Make hearing protection mandatory above 85 dB (upper action level) - Provide health surveillance (hearing tests) for exposed workers - Reduce noise at source where possible Ringing in your ears after a shift (tinnitus) is a WARNING sign of noise damage. This damage is permanent and cumulative. Always wear hearing protection in noisy areas. If your employer is not providing it or not enforcing it, they are breaking the law. Report to HSE: 0300 003 1647.

The US CDC reports that approximately 22 million American workers are exposed to hazardous noise levels annually. NIOSH recommends an exposure limit of 85 dB for 8 hours. For every 3 dB increase above this, the safe exposure time halves. At 88 dB, safe exposure is only 4 hours. At 91 dB, only 2 hours.

This is an important workplace health question. Based on the information above, we recommend speaking with your GP if you have health concerns and contacting HSE (0300 003 1647) if your employer is not meeting their legal obligations. Keep written records of all incidents and communications. Please note: this is general health information, not a substitute for professional medical advice.