Continued exposure to noise levels of 85 dB or greater and impulse noise of how many dB can cause severe hearing loss?

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Multiple Choice

Continued exposure to noise levels of 85 dB or greater and impulse noise of how many dB can cause severe hearing loss?

High-intensity impulse sounds carry a lot more energy in a moment than the same average level over time, so they can cause damage much more quickly. Continued exposure at 85 dB is a known risk for gradual hearing loss, but when an impulsive sound hits around 140 dB, the energy delivered is sufficient to produce permanent damage to the hair cells in the inner ear. This level is comparable to the output of a gunshot or explosion, which is why it’s associated with severe hearing loss, especially with repeated exposure or inadequate protection. Lower impulsive levels like 120 dB, 110 dB, or 100 dB are dangerous too, but they are not as reliably associated with immediate severe damage as 140 dB.

High-intensity impulse sounds carry a lot more energy in a moment than the same average level over time, so they can cause damage much more quickly. Continued exposure at 85 dB is a known risk for gradual hearing loss, but when an impulsive sound hits around 140 dB, the energy delivered is sufficient to produce permanent damage to the hair cells in the inner ear. This level is comparable to the output of a gunshot or explosion, which is why it’s associated with severe hearing loss, especially with repeated exposure or inadequate protection. Lower impulsive levels like 120 dB, 110 dB, or 100 dB are dangerous too, but they are not as reliably associated with immediate severe damage as 140 dB.

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