By: Victoria Pavelko, MS, CCC-SLP
WHAT is Auditory Fatigue? Human conversational speech is heard between 40-50db (noise level).
WHEN does it happen? Auditory fatigue happens when you are exposed to noise levels that are much higher than the normal speech level. If a noise is 90dB or higher, at a frequency of 4000hz or higher, you MAY experience auditory fatigue.
HOW do I know if I have it? People who experience auditory fatigue usually hear a whistling or buzzing in their ears. This is because they are experiencing a temporary sensory hearing loss. It usually lasts 24-48 hours after exposure to excessive noise.
WHO is at risk? Auditory fatigue is most commonly experienced by people who work in noisy environments. In an 8-hour workday, 85dB level of noise is considered safe. However, sound levels over 110db can produce permanent damage very quickly.
Hearing loss affects communication. If your hearing is not within normal range, your ability to socialize and interact with others is adversely affected.
What is too loud and how can you help save your hearing and your COMMUNICATION?
Limit the below listed activities to decrease your risk of permanent hearing loss?
Lawn Mower – 86dB
Noisy Restaurant – 85db -90db
Heavy traffic - 85-90dB
Subway – 90dB – 93dB
Motorcycle -96-98dB
School Dance/Music Concert– 101-105dB
Leaf Blower/Chain saw – 106-115dB
Sport Crowd – 120-126dB
Gun Shot – 135-140dB