This post was contributed by a community member. The views expressed here are the author's own.

Health & Fitness

Noisy Toys can cause hearing loss

The Sight and Hearing Association of St. Paul, Minnesota tests toys for potentially dangerous noise levels.  This non-profit association is dedicated to preventing loss of sight and loss of hearing in children.  On their website they list toys that may harm hearing or vision of children.

 

                The Association tested 18 toys with potentially harmfully loud noises.  The two worst were the Bell Riderz Block Blaster which tested at 129.2 dB.  and the Cars Shake ‘N Go Ramone which tested at 119.5 dB.  There were seven toys that tested at over 100dB.  These levels could cause permanent hearing loss. 

Find out what's happening in Tewksburywith free, real-time updates from Patch.

 

                Children have shorter arms than adults.  If you are at the store and want to listen to a toy, remember that the toy will probably be louder to a child, just due to proximity to their ears.  Remember children often put toys near their ears and faces to see and hear the noises the toys make.  It is important to be aware you may be harming your child’s hearing if you purchase a toy that makes excessively loud noises.

Find out what's happening in Tewksburywith free, real-time updates from Patch.

 

                It is interesting to note that the Consumer Product Safety Commission does not regulate the toy loudness.  There is a voluntary standard about hand-held, crib or table-top toys.  This voluntary standard states the noise level should not exceed 90dB.  But, 90dB is the same loudness as a power chain saw.  How many parents would knowingly put a something as loud as a power tool next to their child’s ear? 

 

According to the American Academy of Audiology moderate noise levels for normal conversational speech is about 60dB.  Loud noises such as vacuum cleaners and traffic noise usually comes in at 70dB.  Lawnmowers, power tools, hair dryers and blenders top out at 90dB.  Car horns and most concerts range up to 110dB.  Jet planes during takeoff are at 120dB.  Ambulances and jackhammers hit 130dB.  Topping the scale at 140dB are fireworks, gun shots and custom car stereos as full volume. 

 

                It is important to know that any noise over 85dB can cause permanent hearing loss. Purchase toys that do not cause hearing loss.  Think long term of your child’s well being and health.  Noisy toys can cause permanent hearing loss.  So, buy your children quiet toys, and you will be happier too! 

We’ve removed the ability to reply as we work to make improvements. Learn more here

The views expressed in this post are the author's own. Want to post on Patch?