Protect your hearing before it’s too late
- Edward Fisher
- Apr 22
- 3 min read
Protect your hearing with simple, effective prevention strategies before it's too late!
If you work in the trades, noise is part of your everyday life.
From power drills and saws to jackhammers and heavy machinery, the constant roar of tools is impossible to escape. But what many tradespeople don’t realise is that this daily exposure to loud noise isn’t just an annoyance—it’s a health risk.
Hearing loss from noise exposure doesn’t happen overnight. It builds up over time, creeping in so gradually that you might not even notice it until the damage is done.
One day, you realise you’re struggling to hear conversations, constantly asking people to repeat themselves, or experiencing a persistent ringing in your ears. By then, it’s often too late—hearing loss is permanent.
The good news? You can prevent it!
With the right protection and habits, you can keep your hearing sharp for years to come.
Here’s what every tradesperson needs to know about noise exposure, the risks and how to safeguard hearing on the job.
How loud Is too loud?
Not all noise is created equal. Safe noise levels are measured in decibels (dB), and anything above 85 dB can cause hearing damage if you’re exposed to it for too long. The louder the noise, the faster the damage happens. Here’s how some common construction tools compare:
Circular saw – 110 dB (hearing damage in 1 minute)
Jackhammer – 100 dB (hearing damage in 15 minutes)
Power drill – 95 dB (hearing damage in 1 hour)
Angle grinder – 105 dB (hearing damage in 4 minutes)
Chainsaw – 120 dB (instant damage)
For context, normal conversation is around 60 dB, while a rock concert can reach 120 dB—the same as a chainsaw.
Most tools used in the builder trades operate well above safe noise levels.
Early signs of noise-induced hearing loss
Hearing loss is tricky because it happens gradually. Many people don’t realise there’s a problem until it starts affecting their daily life. Look out for these warning signs:
Ringing or buzzing in your ears (tinnitus) after work
Difficulty hearing conversations, especially in noisy environments
Constantly asking people to repeat themselves
Turning up the TV or radio louder than before
Muffled or distorted sounds
Ignoring these signs can lead to long-term damage. Once your hearing is gone, there’s no getting it back. That’s why prevention is so important.
How to protect your hearing on the job
Wear the right hearing protection
Not all ear protection is the same. The right choice depends on your work environment and noise levels:
Earplugs – Small, affordable, and great for moderate noise exposure.
Ear defenders (ear muffs) – Better for extremely loud environments, as they offer greater protection.
Custom-moulded earplugs – More expensive but provide a comfortable, snug fit with excellent noise reduction.
Look for options with a Noise Reduction Rating (NRR) of 25-30 dB while still allowing you to hear important sounds like alarms and conversations.
Take breaks from noisy work
Your ears need rest. If possible, rotate tasks so you’re not exposed to high noise levels for long periods. Even stepping away for a few minutes can help reduce long-term damage.
Use quieter tools
Some manufacturers design power tools with noise reduction in mind.
If you’re buying new equipment, check the noise ratings and opt for quieter models whenever possible.
Keep your distance from noise sources
The further you stand from a loud tool, the lower your exposure. If you don’t need to be right next to a noisy machine, take a step back to protect your ears.
Maintain your tools
Old or poorly maintained tools often create more noise than necessary. Keep your blades sharp, lubricate moving parts, and replace worn-out equipment to reduce unnecessary sound levels.
Get regular hearing checks
Because hearing loss develops slowly, regular hearing tests can help detect early damage before it becomes a serious problem. If you notice any changes, don’t ignore them—get checked by a professional.
Why this matters for the Trades industry
Hearing loss doesn’t just impact your ability to work—it affects your entire life. When your hearing starts to go, communication becomes harder, job site safety is compromised, and even simple everyday conversations can feel frustrating. Your hearing is too valuable to take for granted. Start protecting it today with the right gear, smart work habits, and regular hearing checks.
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