For those who work in or around mechanical equipment, power-tools, or construction sites, noise pollution is a serious issue. Anyone who has so much as walked past a jackhammer can attest to that. Loud noises can cause temporary hearing issues, and prolonged exposure to these sounds can lead to permanent ear damage. Luckily, there are ways you can protect your hearing if you work in a loud environment.
Your hearing is bound to worsen as you age, but according to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), the average person doesnt experience hearing impairment until the age of 60. However, if you dont take precautions to protect your hearing in a loud workplace, you can expect to lose some ability much faster. According to the Centers for Disease Control, "by age 25, the average carpenter has the same hearing as someone who is 50 years old and has worked in a quiet job." Aside from hearing loss, ringing in the ears, known as 
The first recommendation is simple: Avoid long-term exposure to loud noises whenever possible. For many people this is virtually impossible, particularly those who may operate heavy equipment or machinery.



