With increasing mechanization noise impact on de human being in professional as well as private life has grown into an ever increasing problem. The consequences are manifold, ranging from subjective discomfort to measurable inner ear damage. The author explains how damaging noise is defined and which are the problems resulting thereof. Course and effect of hardness of hearing are explained, also which measures can be taken to avoid noise-induced hardness of hearing. Particularly, prophylaxis is discussed in connection with SUVA's audiomobile programme and further prossibilities are shown on how occupational medicine can deal with the problem of noise.