by Envoy Medical Staff Member, on October 11, 2025
With the arrival of fall, our backyards and neighborhoods come alive with the sounds of seasonal chores—leaf blowers roaring, chainsaws buzzing, and snow blowers gearing up for the first flurries. It’s easy to overlook just how loud these everyday tools can be. Noise is measured in decibels (dBA), and many of these machines regularly hit or surpass 90 dBA—well above what’s considered safe for our ears. In fact, even a few unprotected minutes around this kind of noise can cause permanent hearing damage.
Noise-Induced Hearing Loss (NIHL): What You Should Know
NIHL occurs when loud sounds damage the fragile hair cells in the cochlea. These cells don’t regenerate, so once they’re gone, the hearing loss is permanent. Sometimes, the damage is immediate.
OSHA’s Warning on Sound Levels
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) cautions that exposure to noise levels above 85 decibels (dBA) can be harmful. A simple test: if you need to raise your voice to speak to someone three feet away, the noise around you is likely too loud. The American Speech-Language-Hearing Association explains further, "You can listen to sounds at 70 dBA or lower for as long as you want. Sounds at 85 dBA can lead to hearing loss if you listen to them for more than 8 hours at a time."
Protecting Your Hearing: Not Just for People Without Hearing Issues
A common myth is that people with hearing aids or existing hearing loss don’t need to worry about additional noise exposure. In reality, they should be even more cautious. Loud sounds can continue to damage residual hearing, making devices less effective and limiting future treatment options. Studies show that noise-induced hearing loss is additive—meaning damage builds over time, even for those already using hearing devices.
How Loud Is Too Loud?
Here are some quick facts from the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD):
| Sound Source | Typical dBA Level |
|---|---|
| Whispering | 30 dBA |
| Normal conversation | 60–70 dBA |
| Dishwasher | 45–65 dBA |
| Vacuum cleaner | 70 dBA |
| Lawn mower | 80–100 dBA |
| Motorcycle | 80–110 dBA |
| Rock concert | 95–115 dBA |
| Fireworks | 140–160 dBA |
Sounds at or below 70 dBA are generally safe. But prolonged or repeated exposure to anything at or above 85 dBA—think lawn mowers, leaf blowers, motorcycles, or concerts—can lead to permanent hearing loss.
Fall Hearing Safety Tips (ASHA)
Wear Hearing Protection: Slip in basic foam earplugs from the drugstore or upgrade to musician’s earplugs from your audiologist—there are even options made for people with hearing aids or implants, so ask your audiologist for a fit that works for you.
Limit Your Exposure: Shorten the time spent using loud tools, and take regular breaks to let your ears recover.
Keep Your Distance: The further you are from noisy equipment, the safer your ears; ASHA advises staying at least 500 feet away from very loud devices whenever possible.
Watch for Warning Signs: If you notice ringing in your ears or any ear discomfort, leave the noise right away. If those symptoms linger the next day, see an audiologist.
Schedule Regular Hearing Checks: Annual or biannual tests are important for everyone, and crucial if you already use hearing technology—early action helps preserve your hearing for the seasons ahead.
The Takeaway for Protect Your Hearing Month
Every October, National Protect Your Hearing Month reminds us that healthy hearing is vital—no matter your age, occupation, or whether you currently use hearing devices. By taking these small but meaningful steps, you’re investing in your ability to connect, communicate, and enjoy every season to the fullest.
Disclaimer: This newsletter is intended for informational purposes only. It is not medical advice. Please consult a licensed healthcare professional before making decisions about your medications or hearing health.
