scholarly journals Case Study in a Working Environment Highlighting the Divergence between Sound Level and Workers’ Perception towards Noise

2020 ◽  
Vol 17 (17) ◽  
pp. 6122
Author(s):  
Chun-Yip Hon ◽  
Illia Tchernikov ◽  
Craig Fairclough ◽  
Alberto Behar
Keyword(s):  
Noise Exposure ◽  
Health And Safety ◽  
Sound Level ◽  
Working Environment ◽  
Noise Levels ◽  
Hearing Conservation ◽  
Attitudes And Perceptions ◽  
Noise Measurements ◽  
Survey Responses ◽  
Excessive Noise

Excessive noise levels are a prevalent issue in food processing operations and, although there have been numerous studies on occupational noise, no single study has used a concurrent mixed-methods approach. Employing this study design allows for an understanding of the level of convergence (similarity) between measured noise levels and workers’ attitudes and perceptions towards noise. This, in turn, allows for the identification of potential challenges with respect to the implementation of hearing conservation efforts. In this study, spot noise measurements were collected using a sound level meter. One-on-one interviews were conducted with workers to determine attitudes and perceptions towards noise in their workplaces. Subsequently, the results of the noise measurements (quantitative data) were integrated with the survey responses (qualitative data) to identify convergence. The majority of the noise measurements were found to exceed 85 dBA—the criterion mandated by the local occupational health and safety legislation. Although all study participants felt that it was noisy in the workplace, a large proportion of respondents indicated that the noise was not bothersome. With workers’ perception being contradictory to the measured noise levels, it is a challenge to implement hearing conservation measures unless changes are made to raise the awareness of the risks associated with excessive noise exposure.

scholarly journals PROBABILITY OF OCCURRENCE OF HEALTH AND SAFETY RISKS ON SCAFFOLDING CAUSED BY NOISE EXPOSURE

2018 ◽  
Vol 24 (6) ◽  
pp. 437-443 ◽  
Author(s):  
Marek Jabłoński ◽  
Iwona Szer ◽  
Jacek Szer
Keyword(s):  
Noise Exposure ◽  
Health And Safety ◽  
Noise Pollution ◽  
Sound Level ◽  
Work Environments ◽  
Exposure Level ◽  
Sound Levels ◽  
Safety Risks ◽  
Noise Measurements ◽  
The Impact

The paper presents the results of measurements for one hundred and ten scaffolds located in five cities in different parts of Poland. Measurements were made between April of 2016 and October of 2017. The environmental tests performed on scaffoldings were focused mainly on the sound level. The parameters on which we base our analysis are the value of C-weighted peak sound levels and daily noise exposure level. The noise that affects construction workers on scaffolding may influence the behaviour of workers and increase the risk of accidents. And at the same time, noise exposure laws facilitate identification of high noise-emitting activities and provide effective preventive measures that reduce noise pollution and improve work environments. The analyses carried out confirmed the qualitatively expected dependencies, and allowed us to quantify the impact of noise to which scaffolding workers are exposed. In summary, noise measurements on scaffoldings can be a valuable aid in improving working conditions. The analysis of research results allows understanding hazards related to noise in an accessible way. They provide the opportunity to modify the professional environment so that it is more employee-friendly and does not expose them to problems occurring in a noisy work environment.

scholarly journals Traffic Intersections Noise Levels and Daily Noise Exposure in Chandrapur City, Central India

2019 ◽  
Vol 3 (3) ◽  
pp. 80-92
Author(s):  
Rahul K. Kamble
Keyword(s):  
Noise Level ◽  
Noise Exposure ◽  
Health And Safety ◽  
Central India ◽  
Sound Level ◽  
Control Measures ◽  
Noise Levels ◽  
Road Design ◽  
Traffic Intersections ◽  
Level Meter

Noise level monitoring was carried out at nine important traffic intersections of the Chandrapur city to ascertain noise levels and daily noise exposure. A pre-calibrated mini sound level meter was used for noise measurement. Observations were recorded for 24 hours and noise level during the day, night and for 24-hours was computed. Maximum noise level during daytime was 84.27 dB(A) at Bangali camp square; whereas, minimum 79.23 dB(A) at Priyadarshani square. In case of nighttime maximum 85.90 dB(A) was at Warora naka square and minimum 70.06 dB(A) at the Jatpura gate. Minimum noise level during 24-hours was at Bagla square 84.34 dB(A) and maximum 91.14 dB(A) at Warora naka square. Noise level during day and night were above the Indian noise standard for the commercial area. The Bangali camp square was identified as the most ear-splitting square during daytime and Warora naka square at nighttime and for 24-hours also. Peak noise was recorded from 10.00 am to 11.00 am and 3.00 pm to 7.00 pm. Vehicular noise, horns, and improper road design contributed significantly to noise levels at traffic intersections. Daily noise exposure analysis by Health and Safety Executive, UK software revealed Bangali camp square and Ramnagar police station square’s daily noise exposure for 0.25 hour was maximum 70 LEP,d and minimum at Gandhi square and Bagla square 65 LEP,d. Noise levels indicated no immediate effect for hearing loss. Control measures for reduction of noise levels at traffic intersections have also been proposed.

scholarly journals Noise exposure and induced hearing loss to workers in small and large scale industries

2018 ◽  
Vol 7 (4.5) ◽  
pp. 571
Author(s):  
Moses Farrell Luka ◽  
Ertan Akun
Keyword(s):  
Hearing Loss ◽  
Large Scale ◽  
Noise Exposure ◽  
Sound Level ◽  
Industrial Workers ◽  
Noise Levels ◽  
North Cyprus ◽  
Sleeping Problems ◽  
High Level ◽  
Survey Responses

The purpose of this research is to determine the level of noise exposure to workers and to recommend how to manage the occupational high level of noise, understanding the workers noise exposure and providing personal ear protectors is the responsibility of employers. After visiting almost all the industries it was noticed that none of these industries are following these requirements. Knowing that expo- sure to excessive noise can cause health problems including temporary or permanent hearing loss, concentration problems, stress, nerv- ousness, sleeping problems and fatigue. The noise levels was measured in different industrial settings in North Cyprus using a noise detecting equipment, cirrus 273 integrated sound level meter with octave band filters. The Safety and health standards for noise exposure were used as the benchmark for our data analysis. Questionnaires were designed to determine how much employees were affected by high noise levels in the workplace. Data’s were analyzed using SPSS statistical program. Survey responses identified the most likely problems faced by industrial workers in North Cyprus. Sound level mapping informed worker noise exposure. It was found the most of the workers were exposed to high level of noise so therefore future studies will focus on industries with the highest noise levels, monitor- ing worker noise exposure using a dosimeter. The use of engineering method is considered best in reducing the high level of noise in these Industries.  

scholarly journals The public’s exposure to and perception of noise in aquatic facilities: a pilot study

2018 ◽  
Vol 61 (4) ◽  
pp. 98-103
Author(s):  
Jana Lowry ◽  
Chun-Yip Hon
Keyword(s):  
Pilot Study ◽  
Public Perception ◽  
Health And Safety ◽  
Sound Level ◽  
Health Concern ◽  
Noise Levels ◽  
Whistle Blowing ◽  
The Public ◽  
Greater Toronto Area ◽  
Excessive Noise

Exposure to noise in recreational settings is a major public health concern. Under the Ontario Occupational Health and Safety Act, workers shall not be exposed to noise levels in excess of 85 dB over an 8-h period. It is generally accepted that the public’s exposure to noise be held to this same standard. The current pilot study explored whether the public is being exposed to excessive noise in indoor aquatic facilities across the Greater Toronto Area and, if so, at what levels. To our knowledge, no other study has explored this topic. Eight separate facilities were assessed using sound level meters to capture LAeq, LApeak, and LAS > 85 dB exceedance/duration. Public perception of noise was determined using self-administered questionnaires. LAeq ranged from 73.6 dB–82.3 dB and LApeak ranged from 102.2 dB–122 dB. Although the LAeq did not exceed the legislated standard, LApeak values were high. Noise levels were mainly associated with the type of activity in the pool and whistle blowing. Overall, the public were indifferent to the noise levels, despite the LApeak being quite high. Further studies are recommended to explore this topic, with a particular emphasis on comparison of different activities within the same facility.

S254 – Bone Conduction Noise Exposure via Ventilators in the NICU

2008 ◽  
Vol 139 (2_suppl) ◽  
pp. P160-P160
Author(s):  
Angela P Black ◽  
James D Sidman
Keyword(s):  
Ambient Noise ◽  
Noise Exposure ◽  
Bone Conduction ◽  
Sound Level ◽  
Noise Levels ◽  
High Noise ◽  
Endotracheal Tubes ◽  
Level Meter ◽  
Hearing Damage ◽  
Air Conduction

Objectives To demonstrate that neonatal ventilators produce high noise levels through bone conduction (BC) via endotracheal tubes, as well as air conduction (AC) from ambient noise. Methods A sound level meter was used to measure the noise levels 4 feet from the ventilator and in direct contact at the end of a balloon attached to the ETT to simulate the noise presented to the infant. 3 commonly used neonatal ventilators (Sensormedics 3100A, VIP Bird and Bunnell Jet) were examined. Results Noise levels were significantly higher (6 – 14 dB) at the end of the ETT than 4 ft from the ventilator for all ventilators studied. Conclusions Previous studies have shown high ambient noise levels in NICUs, but have failed to address the actual noise presented to the infant. ETT transmission of noise as a direct bone stimulus through the skull has been overlooked. This study has shown that high noise intensities are being presented not only as AC, but as BC to the infants though the ETT. This study demonstrates, therefore, that ear protection alone will not save these at-risk infants from hearing damage. More must be done to decrease noise exposure and develop quieter machines.

Noise in Endoscopic Sinus and Skull Base Surgery Operating Rooms

2020 ◽  
pp. 194589242097652
Author(s):  
Marc Levin ◽  
Kelvin Zhou ◽  
Ethan C. Sommer ◽  
Hitansh Purohit ◽  
Jeffery Wells ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Skull Base ◽  
Patient Outcomes ◽  
Noise Exposure ◽  
Skull Base Surgery ◽  
Noise Measurement ◽  
Scrub Nurse ◽  
Noise Levels ◽  
Team Members ◽  
Noise Measurements ◽  
Or Team

Background Noise in the operating room (OR) contributes to miscommunication among team members and may negatively impact patient outcomes. Objectives This study aimed to quantify noise levels during endoscopic sinus and skull base surgery. The secondary aim was to understand how OR team members perceive noise during endoscopic sinus and skull base surgery. Methods Noise levels were measured using the validated phone application SoundMeter X 10.0.4 (r1865) (Faber Acoustical, Utah, USA) at the ear-level of the surgeon, scrub nurse, circulating nurse, and anesthesiologist. At the end of each surgery, OR team members were asked to complete a six-question questionnaire about noise during that surgery. Results One thousand four hundred and two noise measurements were recorded across 353 trials. The loudest mean noise measurement was 84.51 dB and maximum noise measurement was 96.21 dB at the ear-level of the surgeon. Noise was significantly higher at the ear-level of the surgeon and scrub nurse in comparison to the circulating nurse (p = .000) and anesthesiologist (p = .000). Forty percent of questionnaire respondents believed noise was a problem and 38% stated that noise caused communication issues during surgery. Conclusion Surgeons and scrub nurses have significantly higher noise exposure in comparison to circulating nurses and anesthesiologists during endoscopic sinus and skull base surgery. For these members of the OR team, noise is also identified as problematic and causing issues with communication. Mechanisms to reduce potential noise may be implemented to improve communication and patient outcomes in endoscopic sinus and skull base surgery.

scholarly journals Lowering the level of occupational exposure to noise in areas neighbouring compressor halls

2020 ◽  
Vol 305 ◽  
pp. 00044
Author(s):  
Sorin Simion ◽  
Alexandru Simion ◽  
Izabella Kovacs ◽  
Vlad Lautaru
Keyword(s):  
Noise Level ◽  
Noise Exposure ◽  
Working Environment ◽  
Exposure Level ◽  
Occupational Hazards ◽  
Limit Values ◽  
Occupational Noise Exposure ◽  
Legal Provisions ◽  
Acoustic Comfort ◽  
Noise Measurements

A general problem in the vicinity of industrial compressors is the noise generated in the working environment by their operation. A large number of workers suffer from hearing problems caused by exposure to high levels of noise in the workplace. Thus, legal provisions regulating occupational noise exposure aim to reduce the risk of hearing loss by reducing noise level, the most effective measures being those applied directly to the noise source combined with the use of hearing protection. Quantification of noise exposure level and mitigation of occupational hazards generated by it at each workplace is required in order to prevent accidents and occupational diseases. The current paper analyses how noise generated by industrial compressors influences worker’s activity. Prevention of noise exposure must be based on noise level measurements. In this sense, the purpose of the paper is to analyse noise measurements performed at a compressor hall and to compare the values obtained with limit values set by in force legislation, in order to apply the best technical organizational methods for lowering noise exposure and increasing acoustic comfort in order to improve working conditions of those working in the compressor hall.

scholarly journals Field Study of the Noise Exposure Inside Running Metro Unit

2021 ◽  
Vol 7 (3) ◽  
pp. 560-574
Author(s):  
Mohamed N. Younes ◽  
Ali Z. Heikal ◽  
Akram S. Kotb ◽  
Haytham N. Zohny
Keyword(s):  
Noise Exposure ◽  
Sound Level ◽  
Noise Levels ◽  
Severe Damage ◽  
Acoustic Environment ◽  
Factors Affecting ◽  
Greater Cairo ◽  
Train Speed ◽  
Level Meter

The noise levels inside metro units are considered a significant problem that makes passengers suffer from severe damage, especially for those who use the metro periodically. This research evaluates the acoustic environment inside the metro car and studies factors affecting the noise levels inside metro units and developing models for estimate noise in the metro unit while moving between stations. Greater Cairo Metro (GCM) Line 1 has been selected as a case study. A sound level meter was used to measure the equivalent sound level in dBA and evaluate the noise inside metro units. The results indicate that the noise levels are unacceptable compared with the international noise exposure standards. The highest measured noise level inside metro units is 91.2 dBA. These unacceptable noise levels led to more investigation of factors that may affect noise levels inside metro units. Other data have been collected, such as the speed of the train and the track alignment details. The results showed that the noise increases with the increase of the train speed until the speed reaches a specific value, then it decreases depending on the maintenance status and the train type. In addition, the noise levels through curved underground tracks are higher than the levels along straight surface tracks by 18 dB(A). Doi: 10.28991/cej-2021-03091674 Full Text: PDF

scholarly journals Land Use Regression Modeling of Outdoor Noise Exposure in Informal Settlements in Western Cape, South Africa

2017 ◽  
Author(s):  
Chloé Sieber ◽  
Martina S. Ragettli ◽  
Mark Brink ◽  
Olaniyan Toyib ◽  
Roslyn Baatjies ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
South Africa ◽  
Land Use ◽  
Noise Exposure ◽  
Road Traffic ◽  
Model Performance ◽  
Sound Level ◽  
Western Cape ◽  
Land Use Regression ◽  
Middle Income ◽  
Noise Measurements

In developing countries, noise exposure and its negative health effects have been little explored. The present study aimed to assess the noise exposure situation in adults living in informal settings in the Western Cape Province, South Africa. We conducted continuous one-week outdoor noise measurements at 134 homes in four different areas. These data were used to develop a land use regression (LUR) model to predict A-weighted day-evening-night equivalent sound level (Lden) from geographic information system (GIS) variables. Mean noise exposure during day (6:00-18:00) was 60.0 A-weighted decibels (dB(A)) (interquartile range 56.9-62.9 dB(A)), during night (22:00-6:00) 52.9 dB(A) (49.3-55.8 dB(A)) and average Lden was 63.0 dB(A) (60.1-66.5 dB(A)). Main predictors of the LUR model were related to road traffic and household density. Model performance was low (adjusted R2=0.130) suggesting that other influences than represented in the geographic predictors are relevant for noise exposure. This is one of the few studies on the noise exposure situation in low- and middle-income countries. It demonstrates that noise exposure levels are high in these settings.

scholarly journals Sound Level Measurements in Berthing Areas of an Aircraft Carrier

2019 ◽  
Vol 63 (8) ◽  
pp. 918-929
Author(s):  
Nicholas Cody Schaal ◽  
Maria Majar ◽  
Andrew Hunter
Keyword(s):  
Sound Level ◽  
Noise Levels ◽  
Aircraft Carrier ◽  
Flight Operations ◽  
Close Proximity ◽  
Hearing Recovery ◽  
Us Navy ◽  
Noise Measurements ◽  
Time Periods ◽  
Hazardous Noise

Abstract Background Personnel assigned to aircraft carriers work and live in environments where hazardous noise areas and hearing recovery spaces such as sleeping areas are in close proximity to one another. Hazardous noise exposure occurring during on-duty time periods and elevated noise levels during off-duty periods in sleeping areas may be prohibiting adequate hearing recovery, thus potentially leading to hearing loss and may lead to adverse effects on sleep, leading to crew-member fatigue. This investigation characterizes Equivalent sound level (Leq) and standardized octave band center frequency noise levels according to berthing (sleeping) area location during flight operation and nonflight operation time periods on a US Navy aircraft carrier. In addition, the investigation compares noise measurements in sleeping areas to noise levels associated with auditory rest and poor sleep quality and quantity. Methods Noise levels were measured in berthing areas aboard a US Navy Nimitz-class aircraft carrier during a routine at-sea period. Sixty noise measurements were taken in eight sleeping locations. Leq in decibels ‘A’ weighted (dBA) and noise levels from 16 to 16 000 Hz in (dB) were measured during flight operations [Leq (flt ops)] and nonflight operations [Leq (nonflt ops)]. Leq was also measured according to sleep area shipboard locations of forward (FWD) Leq (FWD), middle (MID) Leq (MID), and rear (AFT) Leq (AFT). These data were compared to the 70 dBA American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH) threshold limit value (TLV) for effective quiet areas. In addition, these data were compared to noise levels associated with hearing loss and sleep parameters. Statistical analysis was conducted with R version 3.5.2 using an alpha level of 0.05. Results Leq (flt ops) in sleeping areas was a statistically significant (P < 0.05) 6.4 dBA higher than the Leq (nonflt ops). Leq (FWD) and Leq (MID) in sleeping areas was a statistically significant (P < 0.05) 15.2 and 15.0 dBA higher, respectively, than the Leq (AFT) noise levels. Mean noise levels at standardized center (1/1) octave bands were highest between 500 and 4000 Hz, ranging from 65.2 to 69.8 dB. A total of 72% of all area Leq measurements exceeded the 70 dBA ACGIH TLV classified as effective quiet to allow for temporary threshold shift recovery. All noise measurements exceeded the World Health Organization’s noise threshold where adverse effects on sleep begin. Discussion/Conclusions Results suggest that sleeping area location in close proximity to relatively high noise sources and activities occurring on an aircraft carrier (i.e. flight operations) increase noise levels in sleeping areas. These findings raise serious concerns since high noise exposures both on duty and during off-duty/sleeping periods may inhibit auditory recovery from hazardous noise exposures. In addition, results suggest noise levels in sleeping areas are high enough to evoke negative sleep effects.

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