Perhaps more than any other occupational group, agricultural workers are exposed to a tremendous variety of environmental hazards that are potentially harmful to their health and well-being. Agriculture can generate high noise levels. Tractors, forage harvesters, silage blowers, chain saws, skid-steer loaders, grain dryers, squealing pigs and guns are some of the most typical sources of noise on the farm. Studies suggest that lengthy exposure to these high sound levels have resulted in noise induced hearing loss to farmers of all ages, including teenagers.

Low Frequency Noise Protection

Low frequency noise from engines, motors and fans is prevalent in many farming environments. This noise is not easily eliminated with traditional passive hearing protection devices. Low frequency noise waves are long and carry great distances. They can penetrate passive barriers like foam earcups or even cement walls (which is why you can hear the bass of your neighbor's stereo).

Agricultural Noise Sources	dB Level
Agricultural Machinery
Cascade grain drier	93
Cross flow grain drier	94
Green crop drier	94
Roller/crusher mill for feed preparation	92
Hop cleaner/picker	94
Vegetable preparation area/packing shed	92
Beet harvester	92
Tracklayer	98
Blower/duster (man carried)	89
Chain saw	104
Turkey plucker	100
Turkey house	94
Orchard sprayer	85-100

 

Agricultural Noise Sources	dB Level
Use of Tractors
Disc mower	91
High density baler	97
Hedge cutter	90
Orchard sprayer	98
Straw chopper	90
With cab	73-90
Without cab	91-99
Full throttle	105
Full load	120
All terrain vehicle	100