International Noise Awareness Day is celebrated annually on the last Wednesday in April to raise awareness about the harmful effects of noise on hearing, health, and quality of life.  This year’s theme is “Protect Your Hearing, Protect Your Health.”

Did you know that noise is constantly around us, and by understanding what noise is and how to avoid it, we can protect our hearing?  Here are some surprising facts about noise pollution:

• A quiet room is rated at 40dB, but a gunshot or plane taking off can reach 140dB, causing immediate hearing damage.
• Noise in the workplace poses a safety risk by reducing concentration and increasing worker injuries.
• Gymnasiums and sports facilities can be breeding grounds for hearing loss, with music levels exceeding 105 dBA.
• Music concerts and theatres can reach noise levels of 120dB, risking hearing loss after just 7 minutes.
• Shopping centres are also noisy environments, with the sound of people walking, talking, and music from overhead sound systems and individual shops.
• Even motor vehicle noise can be a problem, especially when driving with music at high volumes or with windows open, letting in outside noise.

So, what can you do to protect your hearing?

• Move further away from speakers if possible.
• Wear adequate hearing protection, such as foam earplugs.
• Play music at safe listening levels: if you can’t hear other people talking when wearing headphones, or if others have to shout to be heard from a meter away, it’s too loud.
• Limit the amount of time you spend in noisy environments.

For more information on noise pollution and hearing protection, contact us:

Email: awareness@wcapd.org.za
Phone: 021 555 2881