Consider Hearing Protection (News Release)

Farmers know they need special gear to protect themselves from pesticides. But many overlook the need to protect their ears from loud noises on the farm.

Every time farm workers vaccinate livestock or are around the squeals of baby pigs, their ears might as well be going to a rock concert--the noise hazard is the same. Loud rock music has a noise level of 115 decibels; pig squeals are rated 130 decibels. Both sounds are well above the 85-decibel level at which industrial employers are required by law to provide hearing protection for workers.

Other common farm noises (in decibels) include the following:

• tractors (without acoustically insulated cabs), 85-95;
• garden tractor, 92;
• fan drying system, 99;
• chickens (enclosed building), 105
• self-propelled combine, 105, and
• chain saw, 115.

The effects of noise are well documented. Exposure to continuous noise can result in hearing loss, cause fatigue and reduced work output, and lead to miscommunication and accidents. In general, people are encouraged to consider hearing protection if they:

• work in an area in which noise drowns out normal conversation;
• experience ringing in the ears after being in a noisy area;
• are bothered, nervous or anxious after being in a noisy area;
• think speech (theirs or others) seems muffled after being in a noisy area.

For information about how to select the right kind of hearing protection, contact the local extension office. A new SAFE FARM publication, Lend an Ear to Hearing Protection, Pm-1518j, also is available. Single copies of the publication are free.