Which type of sound is more damaging to hearing?

High-frequency sound is generally considered more damaging to hearing because it tends to affect the hair cells in the inner ear that are responsible for detecting sound. These hair cells can be especially vulnerable to damage from exposure to high-frequency noise over time, leading to permanent hearing loss. This is particularly relevant in occupational settings where workers may be exposed to loud sounds such as machinery, tools, or equipment that emit high-frequency tones. The consistent exposure to these higher frequencies can overwhelm the auditory system and lead to a greater risk of auditory damage compared to lower frequencies.

While intensity is an important factor in determining the potential for hearing damage—louder sounds pose a greater risk—the frequency of the sound plays a critical role in how effectively our auditory system can handle different sound types. Low-frequency sounds, while they can be disruptive and uncomfortable, typically do not pose the same level of risk for permanent hearing loss as high-frequency sounds.