Hearing loss is not just a consequence of old age. Noise induced hearing loss ranks among the top 10 work-related conditions outlined by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH). Agricultural workers experience one of the highest rates of hearing loss caused by loud noises on the farm. Studies have shown that farmers and other agricultural workers may experience substantial hearing loss by the age of 30. more info below
Noise Exposure and Duration

For the American Academy of Audiology's July 2010 report on wind turbine noise, please click here.

For a picture of different noise levels and their relative danger to us, please click on the "Noise Thermometer" courtesy of The Better Hearing Institute.

For further information about noisy toys, please open this document for excerpts from the 2009 Annual Toy Report produced by the US Public Interest Research Group. This was the 24th annual report by this consumer protection organization. Additional advice on toys and loudness levels is available here.

The Noisy Planet website has a helpful Tip Sheet available here for parents to discuss noise levels with their children.