Hearing loss risk factors: the noises around your home are probably louder than you think

EXPOSURE TO NOISES ABOVE 85 DECIBELS (DBA) CAN, OVER TIME, rob you of your hearing, according to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health. The following common household sounds may be putting you at risk. Whenever possible, reduce your exposure to these offenders. For example, dry your hair for shorter periods of time, wear earplugs when vacuuming, and consider raking rather than blowing leaves. --S.L.

                     Sound
Noise Source         Level
                    (in DBA)

Vacuum cleaner         85

  Blender or           90
food processor

  Lawn mower           95

  Hair dryer           95

Kitchen garbage        95
   disposal

 Leaf blower          110

Dog squeak toy        135

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