At what decibel level does NIHL typically begin to occur?

Noise-Induced Hearing Loss (NIHL) typically begins at around 85 decibels. This level is significant because prolonged exposure to sounds at or above this decibel level can lead to permanent damage to the auditory system. The risk of hearing loss increases with both the intensity of the sound and the duration of exposure.

Sounds at 85 decibels can be found in environments such as heavy traffic, loud music, or machinery in industrial settings. At this level, continuous exposure for hours can cause cumulative damage to the delicate structures in the inner ear, particularly the hair cells that are responsible for transmitting sound signals to the brain.

Understanding this threshold is crucial for implementing effective hearing conservation programs in workplaces to protect employees from noise exposure. This can include measures such as providing hearing protection devices, establishing quieter work areas, and rotating workers to limit their exposure time to loud environments.