Continuous exposure to acoustical levels above what decibel level can affect auditory health?

Continuous exposure to acoustical levels above 85 dB can significantly impact auditory health. Prolonged exposure to sounds at this level, particularly in occupational settings, can lead to noise-induced hearing loss. Such damage occurs because the hair cells in the cochlea can become overstimulated, leading to their eventual destruction.

The 85 dB threshold is widely recognized in occupational health guidelines and standards, such as those from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH). These organizations recommend action plans to protect hearing when noise levels reach or exceed this threshold, including the use of hearing protection and implementing engineering controls to reduce noise.

Understanding the importance of this threshold is essential for ensuring the auditory health of individuals who work in environments with high noise levels, particularly in research and laboratory settings where animals may also be affected by loud sounds.