Citation

Kulik A, Malinowska-Borowska J. Int. J. Occup. Safety Ergonomics 2018; 24(3): 366-372.

Affiliation

Department of Toxicology and Health Protection, School of Public Health in Bytom , Medical University of Silesia , 18 Piekarska street, 41 - 902, Bytom, Katowice , Poland.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2018, Centralny Instytut Ochrony Pracy - Państwowy Instytut Badawczy, Publisher Informa - Taylor and Francis Group)

DOI

10.1080/10803548.2017.1420583

PMID

29353537

Abstract

Impulse noise encountered in workplaces is a threat to hearing. The aim of this study was to assess the occupational exposure to impulse noise produced by detonation of dynamite in the premises of an explosives company. Test points were located on the blast test area (inside and outside the bunker) and in work buildings across the site. Noise propagation measurement was performed during 130 blast tests in 9 measurement points. At every point, at least 10 separate measurements of equivalent A-weighted sound pressure levels (LAeq), maximum A-weighted sound pressure level (LAmax), and C-weighted peak sound pressure level (LCpeak) were made. Noise recorded in the blast test area exceeded occupational exposure limits (OELs). Noise levels measured in buildings did not exceed the OELs.

RESULTS of the survey showed that for 62% of respondents, impulse noise causes difficulties in performing work. The most commonly reported symptoms include headaches, nervousness and irritability.

Language: en

Keywords

dynamite; exposure to noise; impulse noise; sound pressure level