Historical review of efforts to reduce noise-induced hearing loss in the United States

Abstract

Background: Noise-induced hearing loss is a centuries-old problem that is still prevalent in the United States and worldwide.

Aim: To describe highlights in the development of hearing loss prevention in the U.S. from World War II to the present.

Methods: Literature review.

Results: Approaches to occupational noise-induced hearing loss prevention in the United States over the past seven decades are described using a hierarchy of controls framework and an interdisciplinary perspective. Historical timelines and developmental milestones related to occupational noise-induced hearing loss prevention are summarized as a life course.

Discussion: Lessons are drawn for other countries in their hearing conservation efforts.

Conclusion: Future developments building on the hearing loss prevention work of the past 70 years can prevent the problem of occupational NIHL in the 21st century. Am. J. Ind. Med. 60:569-577, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Keywords: history of occupational hearing loss; industrial hearing loss; noise induced hearing loss; occupational hearing loss.