A-weighted decibels (dBA)

Noise pollution is a serious but often forgotten public health problem

<figure><img src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/756777/original/file-20260828-50-pgx3ag.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.1&rect=0%2C1%2C7007%2C4672&q=45&auto=format&w=1050&h=700&fit=crop" /><figcaption><span class="caption">Noise pollution is an occupational health hazard for many workers.</span> <span class="attribution"><a class="source" href="https://www.gettyimages.com/detail/photo/young-woman-working-on-a-drill-press-machine-in-a-royalty-free-image/2166870837?phrase=noise%20at%20work&searchscope=image,film&adppopup=true">urbazon/E+ via Getty Images</a></span></figcaption></figure><p>The human body is remarkably good at getting used to the environment around it. You’ve probably experienced this if you’ve ever gone to a matinee and emerged from the dark theater into sunshine. Your eyes sting, so you squint and shield your face until they adjust to the bright sunlight.</p> <p>In the same way, the body can grow accustomed to constant noise. With repeated ex