What is noise-induced hearing loss?

Noise-induced hearing loss is caused by exposure to excessive sound levels. It commonly occurs due to repeated noise exposure over a long period of time (many years) in the workplace or can arise recreationally from attendance at loud concerts or the use of loud power tools at home. A single event such as an explosion can cause noise‐induced hearing loss if the intensity is loud enough. (Refer to our Decibel Diagram, attached).

Sound pressure caused by noise destroys the delicate nerve cells in the inner ear that transmit sound messages to the brain. The nerve cells are replaced by scar tissue which does not respond to sound. The damage is painless but permanent. Hearing aids can be helpful but cannot restore normal hearing.

What is noise-induced hearing loss?

Noise-induced hearing loss is caused by exposure to excessive sound levels. It commonly occurs due to repeated noise exposure over a long period of time (many years) in the workplace or can arise recreationally from attendance at loud concerts or the use of loud power tools at home. A single event such as an explosion can cause noise‐induced hearing loss if the intensity is loud enough. (Refer to the NFD Decibel Diagram above).

Sound pressure caused by noise destroys the delicate nerve cells in the inner ear that transmit sound messages to the brain. The nerve cells are replaced by scar tissue which does not respond to sound. The damage is painless but permanent. Hearing aids can be helpful but cannot restore normal hearing.

Noise induced hearing loss - NFD

Noise‐induced hearing loss is preventable.

Excessive exposure to noise is a known cause of one-third of hearing loss in New Zealanders. The higher the noise level and the longer your exposure, the greater the damage done – but the good news is that you can start preventing any further damage now.

Three key things you can do to prevent noise‐induced hearing loss:

  • Wear hearing protection when you are exposed to loud noise
  • Limit the amount of time you are exposed to loud noise
  • Turn down the volume on personal music players
  • Headphones are preferable to earbuds, as they hold the low frequencies in and give you a better sense of loudness and improved sound quality

For more information

If you know you have hearing loss due to noise at work and feel you are ready to trial hearing aids please see our two information pages about ACC hearing aid funding.

ACC hearing aid funding – Included products and services
How to apply for ACC funding for hearing aids