An Occupational Noise Exposure Assessment for Headset-Wearing Communications Workers

Abstract

An occupational noise exposure study was conducted on a group of 37 communications workers who wear closed-back circumaural headsets. These workers underwent preevaluation audiometric testing, and were monitored for noise exposure during a normal work shift. The noise exposure was assessed employing a real ear model, in which subminiature microphones are placed at the entrance of the external auditory meatus of each subject. The total monitoring period for each subject was subdivided into several cycles. The data from the cycles were compared and incorporated into an average equivalent continuous sound level for each subject. Resulting equivalent continuous sound levels ranged from 79.9 to 103.7 dBA, with a mean value of 87.0 dBA. The maximum peak values ranged from 119.2 to 148.8 dB, with a mean of 140.8 dB. Equivalent continuous sound levels and peak sound levels were compared with the gender, age, work experience, and smoking status of each subject. Comparison of noise exposure level with demographic variables, as well as comparisons within each subject's L_AVI data failed to show statistically significant differences (p ≤ 0.05). Recommendations were made for the development of a noise hazard awareness training program, to include noise exposure reduction techniques that are tailored to the needs of the communications workers.