What is noise-induced hearing loss?

Noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) is a type of permanent hearing damage caused by exposure to loud sounds—either suddenly, after a very intense noise, or gradually over time.

Inside the inner ear are tiny, delicate hair cells that convert sound vibrations into electrical signals for the brain to interpret. These cells do not repair or regenerate once damaged. When loud noise overwhelms the ear—whether from industrial equipment, heavy traffic, power tools or even loud music—it can destroy these hair cells and impair the hearing nerve, reducing the ear’s ability to send clear signals to the brain.

In some cases, a single exposure to an extremely loud noise, such as an explosion or gunshot, can cause immediate and irreversible hearing loss. More commonly, NIHL develops slowly after prolonged exposure to harmful noise levels, often starting with a gradual loss of high-frequency hearing.

Because this damage progresses painlessly and subtly, many people do not realise their hearing has been affected until the loss becomes significant.

What are the first signs of NIHL?

Common early symptoms include:

Difficulty hearing high-frequency sounds
Struggling to follow conversations in noisy environments
A feeling of muffled hearing
Ringing or buzzing in the ears (tinnitus)

What causes NIHL?

NIHL can be caused by long-term exposure to loud environments—such as industrial machinery, construction sites, heavy traffic, or loud music—or by sudden, intense noises like explosions or gunshots.

What makes this workplace risk uniquely dangerous?

It is invisible and therefore, not always given the attention it deserves
Because hearing loss is progressive, it is harder to recognise
It is not widely known that hearing loss is irreversible
We adjust to noise - even excessive noise - which becomes the new norm
Hearing loss doesn't hurt
It is part of the aging process…… isn’t it?

How loud is “too loud”?

Noise levels above 85 dB can begin to cause damage over time. The louder the sound, the shorter the safe exposure time. For example, exposure to 100 dB (e.g., a chainsaw) can be harmful in as little as 15 minutes without protection. It is essential to protect our ears from harmful levels of noise, but how do we know what is a “harmful level”? The maximum periods of time a person should be exposed to harmful noise per day without hearing protection can be surprising:

85 dB

City
traffic

8 hours

88 dB

Bulldozer

4 hours

91 dB

Jazz
concert

2 hours

94 dB

Lawn
mower

1 hour

97 dB

Nightclub

30 mins

100 dB

Ambulance
siren

15 mins

103 dB

Rock
concert

7.5 mins

uvex hearing protection

Choosing the right protection depends on the noise level, work environment, and required level of communication. uvex offer a full range of hearing protection solutions, including innovatively shaped and extremely comfortable disposable earplugs, with patented x-grip shaping for easy and safe removal; reusable earplugs conveniently attached to a handy cord, designed to be cleaned easily and hygienically stored in individual carrying cases; detectable earplugs designed to be picked up both visually and by machines, thanks to their striking blue colour and metal ball; and highly compatible ear muffs, with soft memory foam cushions for extra comfort and lightweight, balanced designs.

uvex hi-com disposable earplugs

uvex com4-fit disposable earplugs

uvex xact-fit planet disposable earplugs

uvex whisper detec reusable earplugs

uvex K1 earmuffs

uvex K2 earmuffs

uvex pheos K2P helmet earmuffs

uvex pheos K2P magnet helmet earmuffs

Next steps

It is crucial that hearing protectors are fitted correctly and worn when they need to be otherwise we almost might as well not bother. This is where the importance of proper information, education and training is vital for wearers. uvex offers effective training packages which highlight the health benefits of protecting employees from hearing loss. Following a noise assessment, our professionals are available to guide you through the process of selecting the right hearing protection based on noise exposure levels and delivering training to ensure correct fitting for maximum protection and comfort. To find the right hearing protection for your workplace noise levels contact our PPE Solutions Experts.

FAQ's

Can noise-induced hearing loss be reversed?

No. Once the hair cells in the inner ear are damaged, they do not grow back. While the effects cannot be reversed, further damage can be prevented with proper hearing protection.

Who is most at risk of NIHL?

Workers in loud environments—such as manufacturing, construction, transportation, emergency services and live events—are at the highest risk. However, recreational activities like concerts, motorsports and using headphones at high volume can also contribute.

How can NIHL be prevented?

Key prevention measures include:

Wearing appropriate hearing protection (earplugs or earmuffs)
Reducing exposure time in loud environments
Using engineering controls to reduce workplace noise
Regular hearing checks, especially for high-risk workers

Is tinnitus the same as NIHL?

No, but tinnitus (ringing or buzzing in the ears) is often an early indicator of NIHL. It can occur alongside hearing loss or as a standalone condition.

Should employers provide hearing protection?

Yes. Employers have a legal duty to protect workers from harmful noise levels by assessing risks, implementing noise control measures and providing suitable hearing protection where required.

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