What type of noise exposure is most damaging to hearing?

Continuous or intermittent loud noise is identified as the most damaging type of noise exposure to hearing. This is primarily because prolonged or repeated exposure to loud noise can lead to cumulative damage to the delicate structures within the inner ear over time. This type of exposure can contribute to permanent hearing loss, as the inner ear hair cells can become fatigued and may not recover.

Low-frequency sounds that are occasionally experienced generally do not carry the same risk level as they often do not produce the same level of stress on the auditory system. Burst of short loud sounds can also be damaging, but the risk of sustaining hearing loss is more closely associated with continuous exposure rather than isolated incidents. Quiet background sounds do not present any risk to hearing and can actually be beneficial in providing a buffer against more dangerous noise levels. Thus, continuous or intermittent loud noise remains the primary concern in hearing conservation practices.