3/30/2024 0 Comments Decibel scale hearing damageTheir function is to transform sound vibrations into electrical signals, which are conducted via the nervous system. In the cases of both lasting exposure to high levels of sound and short-lived, very intense sound peaks, the hair cells in the inner ear with their very fine hairs (stereocilia) can be permanently damaged. Noise related damage to hearing is irreversible Toy pistols have given rise to short-lived peak levels of 160 dB(A) and more when fired close to the ear. This corresponds to the noise level generated by a pneumatic hammer. ![]() Portable music players with headphones can generate music sound levels of up to 110 dB(A). In addition, “noisy“ toys (such as cap pistols, whistles, and football rattles), portable music players, and fireworks, can have adverse impacts on hearing. Quantitative estimations in respect of risk of hearing damage can be undertaken on the basis of the ISO 1999 guideline or guideline 2058 of the Association of German Engineers (VDI), section 2: ( Assessment of noise in the working area with regard to the risk of hearing damage ). From a level of 85 dB(A) (peak value 137 dB(Cpeak)), the employer is obliged to ensure that ear protection equipment made available is being used according to law. In accordance therewith the employer is under obligation to provide the workforce with ear protection when the criterion level reaches or exceeds 80 dB(A) (peak value 135 dB(Cpeak). ![]() In comparison to earlier regulations, the prevention and protection values (“upper” and “lower” threshold values) have been reduced by 5 dB (A). This requirement was made binding under German law on in the course of the implementation of the EU Directive 2003/10/EC for the protection of workers from adverse noise effects ( Health and Safety Ordinance on Noise and Vibration - LärmVibrationsArb SchV ). The Health and Safety at Work Act ( Arbeitsstättenverordnung - ArbStättV, 2004 ) decrees that the criterion sound level in places of work, when taken over an 8 hour period, may not exceed 85 dB(A). ![]() Sound measurements taken on a random sample basis in discotheques and at live-music events have recorded music noise levels of between 90 and 110 a-decibels (dB(A)). Sound levels in discotheques can approach those in noisy workplaces, where protective measures for the affected workers are prescribed by law. Such high levels of sound are not only found in the workplace, but also in leisure activities, for example, in listening to loud music. This can be brought about either by exposure to continuous sound or by short-lived sound peaks. Hearing can be damaged to the point of clinical deafness, and short- or long-term ringing in the ears (tinnitus) can result. An excess of sound, whether in intensity or duration, can generate adverse effects or permanent damage to the hearing.
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