CDC: Buy Quiet. 　

Emergency Message System

July 22nd, 2023

Noise-induced hearing loss is one of the most common work-related illnesses in the United States.

Noise-induced hearing loss is one of the most common work-related illnesses in the United States. Each year approximately 22 million U.S. workers are exposed to noise loud enough to damage their hearing. To create a more healthful workplace, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) recommends preventing hazardous noise through controls for noise exposure and encourages business owners to create Buy Quiet programs as a first step.

What is Buy Quiet?
Buy Quiet is a prevention initiative which:
Encourages companies to purchase or rent quieter machinery and tools to reduce worker noise exposure. This is accomplished when new businesses start up or when older equipment is replaced.
Provides information on equipment noise levels, so companies can buy quieter products that make the workplace safer.
Encourages manufacturers to design quieter equipment by creating a demand for quieter products.

Why Buy Quiet?
Noise-induced hearing loss can’t be reversed, but it is 100% preventable. NIOSH recommends that workers should not be exposed to noise at a level that amounts to more than 85 decibels (dBA) for 8 hours. Buy Quiet can help you stay below the recommended exposure level for noise.

There is a difference of more than 10 dBA between two saws completing the same task. This difference equates to a greater than 90% reduction in noise energy, resulting in fewer hearing loss injuries. * Buying quiet makes a difference.

Benefits of Buy Quiet
Reducing the risk of hearing loss.
Reducing the long-term costs of audiometric testing, personal protective equipment, and workers compensation. Conservative estimates provide $100 per dBA of savings when purchasing the quieter product.1 This savings is applicable across a wide variety of machinery and equipment.
Helping companies comply with OSHA and other noise regulation requirements.