Which civilian group has the largest exposure to hazardous noise?

The civilian group with the largest exposure to hazardous noise is people in manufacturing. This sector often involves operating heavy machinery, power tools, and equipment that generate high levels of noise. Manufacturing environments can be particularly noisy due to the constant operation of machines, assembly lines, and other industrial processes.

In addition, workers in manufacturing often lack adequate hearing protection, especially in facilities where safety protocols may not be strictly enforced. The combination of elevated noise levels and potential gaps in hearing conservation practices makes this group particularly vulnerable to noise-induced hearing loss.

While agricultural workers, healthcare professionals, and office workers can also be exposed to hazardous noise, their exposure levels are generally not as high or as continuous as those found in the manufacturing sector. For example, agricultural workers may encounter noise from machinery, but it's often seasonal and can be more sporadic. Healthcare professionals may work in noisy environments such as emergency rooms or operating rooms, yet their exposure may be limited to specific tasks rather than ongoing throughout the day. Office workers typically operate in quieter settings, making them the least likely group to experience hazardous noise exposure.