Thousands of workers in various industries are exposed to dangerous levels of noise every day. Over time, excessive noise can cause hearing loss, tinnitus, and even cardiovascular issues, making it essential to be aware of the risks. While some noisy jobs are obvious, there are a few that might surprise you.

Here’s a look at occupations with the highest noise exposure.

Construction Workers

It’s no surprise that construction sites are loud. Workers in this field are regularly exposed to jackhammers, bulldozers, heavy machinery, and power tools, which can easily produce sound levels above 90 decibels (dB), often reaching as high as 120 dB. Long-term exposure without proper hearing protection can lead to permanent hearing loss.

Noise source: Power tools, heavy machinery, demolition equipment.

Factory and Manufacturing Workers

Another commonly noisy environment is the factory floor. Workers in industries such as automotive manufacturing, textile production, and metal fabrication face constant noise from machines, compressors, and conveyors. These sounds typically exceed 85 dB, with many reaching over 100 dB, putting employees at high risk for hearing damage.

Noise source: Industrial machinery, assembly line equipment.

Airport Ground Crew

For those working in and around airports, the noise levels are astounding. Jet engines can generate noise levels exceeding 140 dB during takeoff and landing. While pilots are generally shielded by their cockpits, ground crew members, including baggage handlers and runway maintenance staff, are directly exposed to these loud bursts of sound.

Noise source: Jet engines, auxiliary power units, aircraft maintenance equipment.

Musicians and Concert Venue Staff

Though we typically associate music with enjoyment, performing musicians, sound engineers, and concert venue staff are often exposed to dangerous sound levels during rehearsals and live performances. Rock concerts, for example, can hit levels of 110-120 dB, and sustained exposure to amplified sound can cause significant hearing damage.

Noise source: Amplified music, speaker systems, crowds.

Farmers and Agricultural Workers

Though it might come as a surprise, farming is one of the noisier occupations. Tractors, harvesters, and other agricultural machinery regularly produce noise levels exceeding 85 dB, and in some cases, up to 100 dB. Because farming takes place in open spaces, many workers may underestimate the risk of hearing damage and neglect wearing proper protection.

Noise source: Tractors, harvesters, grain dryers, livestock.

Bartenders and Nightclub Workers

If you think bartenders only face noise from chatting patrons, think again. Nightclubs and busy bars with loud music often expose staff to sound levels well above 100 dB, particularly in venues with live DJs or bands. Many bartenders and wait staff work long shifts surrounded by loud music and noisy patrons, putting them at risk for hearing damage over time.

Noise source: Loud music, crowds.

Dental Professionals

Many people don’t realize that dentists and dental hygienists are exposed to high-pitched noise from dental drills and ultrasonic cleaners every day, which can range from 70 to 100 dB. Though not as loud as some industrial environments, the frequency of these sounds and the long hours spent around them can contribute to hearing issues, especially if proper ear protection isn't used.

Noise source: Dental drills, ultrasonic scalers.

Public Transportation Workers

Bus drivers, subway operators, and train engineers also face high noise exposure, often due to the combination of loud engines, public announcements, and general traffic noise. While they may not be exposed to constant high decibel levels, the consistent and often reverberating noise in confined spaces can cause long-term auditory damage.

Noise source: Engines, train tracks, public announcements, traffic.

Teachers and Childcare Workers

Constant noise in classrooms, cafeterias, and playgrounds can reach surprising levels, particularly among younger age groups. Teachers and childcare providers often work in noisy environments for hours at a time, which can add up over years.

Noise source: Children’s voices, classroom noise, school bells.

Emergency First Responders

Of course, we couldn’t make this list without mentioning first responders. First responders often work in high-pressure environments filled with loud noise, from blaring sirens to heavy-duty rescue equipment. Firefighters, in particular, face intense noise exposure during rescues, with chainsaws, axes, and loud alarms. There’s a reason RestorEar and our collaborators have partnered with fire communities to conduct research! Paramedics and police officers also deal with traffic noise, sirens, and other sudden loud sounds that can take a toll on hearing over time.

Noise source: Sirens, rescue equipment, alarms.

How to Protect Yourself from Occupational Noise Exposure

If you work in a noisy environment, it’s crucial to take steps to protect your hearing. Here are some key strategies:

• Use Hearing Protection: Earplugs and earmuffs are essential for reducing noise exposure. Choose appropriate protection based on your environment and make sure they fit well.
• Limit Exposure: Whenever possible, take breaks from the noise. If you can step into a quiet space for a few minutes, it can help reduce the overall strain on your ears.
• Regular Hearing Checks: Early detection of hearing loss can help prevent further damage. Regular hearing tests are crucial for anyone working in a noisy environment.
• Employer Responsibility: Many industries are required to adhere to occupational noise exposure limits and provide hearing protection for workers. Make sure your workplace is compliant with these standards.
• Unwind With ReBound: ReBound is designed to support hearing health after noise exposure. Wear ReBound for 20-30 minutes after a noisy day to give your ears some much-needed self care. 

Noise-induced hearing loss is preventable, but only if workers and employers take proactive measures to reduce noise exposure. Whether you work in a loud environment like a construction site or an unexpected noisy setting like a dentist’s office, understanding the risks and protecting your hearing is key to maintaining your auditory health for the long term.

If you think you’ve been exposed to dangerous noise levels or notice changes in your hearing, don’t hesitate to consult a hearing professional. Your ears will thank you!