What Noise-Induced Hearing Loss means to ag employers

Noise-Induced Hearing Loss (NIHL) is a permanent hearing impairment resulting from prolonged exposure to high levels of noise commonly found on farms, such as from tractors, chainsaws, and grain dryers. This type of hearing loss progresses gradually, often going unnoticed until significant damage has occurred. Farmworkers of all ages are at risk, with studies indicating that even young workers can experience hearing loss due to farm-related noise exposure. Implementing noise control measures and using personal protective equipment like earplugs or earmuffs can help mitigate the risk of NIHL in agricultural settings.