Protect your hearing from loud noise
Wear earplugs or earmuffs around loud noise, turn the volume down and step away when you can.
- How often
- As needed
- Time
- During loud activities
- Recommended for
- 16 factors
How to do it
- Use a quick rule of thumb: if you have to shout to be heard, the noise may be damaging your hearing.
- Wear earplugs or earmuffs for loud work, power tools, lawn equipment, motorcycles, concerts and shooting.
- Turn down headphones and speakers, and take breaks from noise.
- Move away from the source when you can't make it quieter.
- Keep a pair of earplugs in your bag, car or toolbox so you always have them.
Why it helps
Long or repeated exposure to sounds at or above 85 decibels can permanently damage the tiny hair cells in your inner ear. Headphones at full volume, concerts and sporting events often reach 94 to 110 decibels. Noise-induced hearing loss can't be reversed, but it is largely preventable.
Be careful
If sounds seem muffled, you hear ringing or buzzing, or you have trouble following conversations, get your hearing tested. Temporary hearing loss after a loud event can still leave lasting damage.
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