User:Mr. Ibrahem/Occupational hearing loss

Occupational hearing loss (OHL) is hearing loss that occurs as a result of work hazards. It may be of any type, including sensorineural, conductive, or mixed. Severity may range from mild to profound. Cases may be associated with tinnitus (ringing in the ears).

Long term noise exposure at levels of at least 80 to 85 decibels is the most common cause. Other causes may include exposure to certain chemicals and injury. Chemicals involved may include styrene, toluene, lead, mercury, carbon monoxide, and hydrogen cyanide. Injury may involve an explosion, sharp objects, or metal sparks perforating the eardrum. Diagnosis is by audiometry.

Measures including laws that require lower noise levels; personal protective equipment, such as earplugs; and replacing toxic chemicals with safer ones are effective. In the United States, organizations such as the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), and Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) work to reduce hearing hazards through a hierarchy of controls.

Occupational hearing loss is one of the most common work-related illnesses in the United States. At least 16% of significant hearing loss in adults globally is due to occupational exposures. Among people working in the United States it represents more than half of cases. Industries with the highest levels of hearing loss include mining, manufacturing, and construction. As of 2016 in the United States, 17% of those involved with mining, 16% of those involved in construction, and 14% of those involved in manufacturing had hearing problems. Industries with lower rates of problems include police, firefighters, and paramedics at 7%.