"In most farming environments, noise isn't a common conversation."
"Awareness is such a key element of noise and reducing the risk of noise that if you're not aware of noise or noise induced hearing loss, the risk increases significantly."
"If we go into a [swine] barn, the squeals can reach up to 130 decibels. That's almost as high as a jet engine taking off."
"Anytime we have high noise sources we need to think about protection or think about removing ourselves from that noise source wherever possible."
Hearing loss among adult farmers is nearly double that of non-farmers and is entirely preventable. Farm noise originates from tractors, augers, and livestock facilities, with swine barn squeals reaching around 130 decibels, comparable to a jet engine. Risk depends on both loudness and exposure duration; as levels rise, safe exposure time falls rapidly. Excessive noise impairs hazard awareness and the ability to hear equipment issues, alarms, or warnings. Practical steps include equipment maintenance, investing in quieter machinery, reducing exposure by distancing from noise sources, and consistent use of appropriate hearing protection.
Read at Realagriculture
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