Fire fighter noise exposure

Abstract
Occupational noise exposure was evaluated for 8 fire fighter positions on board 3 types of emergency vehicles. One hundred seventy code-3 responses were monitored and sound pressure levels in excess of 115 dBA found. Sound pressures exceeding the OSHA [Occupational Safety and Health Administration] allowable level of 90 dBA for 8 h exposure were determined. Octave band analyses were performed for overall code-3 noise and for specific noise sources on each vehicle. An evaluation of 89 audiograms of fire fighters was carried out. Under present operational conditions fire fighters experience excessive short-duration, high intensity noise exposure and a hearing conservation program for the fire service is recommended.

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