What dBA level is considered hazardous for steady-state noise?

The designation of 85 dBA as a hazardous level for steady-state noise is based on guidelines established by various health and safety organizations, including the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH). This level is recognized because exposure to sounds at or above this threshold can lead to hearing loss or damage over time, especially with prolonged or repeated exposure.

At 85 dBA, individuals are often at risk if they are exposed for an extended period, generally defined as 8 hours in occupational settings. This guideline serves to protect workers by minimizing exposure to potentially harmful noise levels. Therefore, identifying 85 dBA as the hazardous level for steady-state noise emphasizes the need for hearing conservation strategies and protective measures in environments where such noise levels are present. This awareness is crucial in promoting auditory health and preventing noise-induced hearing loss.

Choosing a lower dBA level would not account for the significant risk associated with prolonged exposure to higher noise levels seen in many work environments today.