What causes noise exposure in the military?

There are many causes of noise exposure in the military. Most noise exposure is associated with gunfire, explosions and blasts during combat. Also, soldiers and military personnel who work near aircraft, fly jets or work in the shipyards may be exposed to high levels of noise and vibrations for long periods of time.

During combat, it’s virtually impossible to avoid noise exposure as stray IEDs (improvised explosive devices) and fighter jet launches can occur at unpredictable times. Also many soldiers and military personnel avoid wearing important hearing protection devices, believing these high tech ear plugs may make them vulnerable and even put them in danger if there is an enemy attack nearby. When you combine the noise level of a helicopter, jet launch and ongoing gunfire, it becomes obvious that military personnel and veterans have a high risk of noise exposure and noise-induced hearing loss.