Can loud noise exposure potentially cause deafness?

• A. Yes
• B. No
• C. Only after ten minutes
• D. Never

Answer: (A)

Loud noise can damage the inner ear, especially the hair cells that convert sound into nerve signals. When these cells are harmed, hearing diminishes and can become permanent. This can happen from a single extremely loud blast or from long-term exposure to ongoing loud equipment in a mine. Because the risk exists from various exposure scenarios and the damage can be permanent, saying “Yes” is correct. It’s not limited to a fixed time like ten minutes, and it’s not something that never happens—deafness can occur if the noise is sufficiently intense or sustained. In mining, using hearing protection and limiting exposure are essential to reduce this risk.