Preschool teachers’ exposure to classroom noise

Abstract

This research examined exposure to classroom noise of 25 full‐time teaching staff in 14 preschool settings located across Western Sydney. The results indicated that one teacher exceeded the maximum permissible level of daily noise exposure for employees under the health and safety legislation. Three staff approached this level and 92% of teachers were subjected to daily noise exposure which, if occurs repeatedly, is considered potentially harmful. Nine staff recorded peak noise rates in excess of the permitted limit. High levels of noise were evident when large numbers of students were located in confined areas, when they were involved in rough play or were distressed, when the students dropped heavy play equipment, and during music sessions. Further research on noise in early educational settings across different nations appears to be valuable for understanding both the scope of the problem and possible remedies.