2020 NHCA Annual Conference

This half-day workshop will provide current information to attendees regarding the effects of impulsive noise, ways to measure it, techniques to mitigate the exposure, and how to assess impulsive noise exposures.Exposure to high-level impulse noises such as firearms and explosions is significant risk factor for noise induced hearing loss.When peak exposure levels exceed 140 dB SPL, the risk of permanent hearing loss increases rapidly.Although Impulse and impact noise are generated through different processes, they are often grouped into impulsive noise.When measuring impulsive, sound level meters may not be the best choice.In many cases, recordings are more beneficial to understand the exposure and to mitigate the risk.Hearing protection devices are not the only tool in the hearing-loss prevention toolbox.Level dependent passive or electronic protectors, mufflers and noise suppressors can provide a range of noise level reductions and improve communication in critical jobs.Estimating the risk of hearing loss has been challenging due to the range of damage risk criteria (DRC) available to the occupational safety and health professional.The advantages and disadvantages of several DRCs will be presented.By attending this workshop, should help the safety and health professional to understand, measure, and mitigate the risk of noise exposure to high-level impulsive noise.