U.S. Air Force Noise Exposure Demonstration Project
Abstract
This technical report summarizes research conducted by the US Air Force School of Aerospace Medicine, Force Health Protection Branch, in support of the Air Force Medical Service Total Exposure Health (TEH) program. Intended to be an initial demonstration of TEH, the primary objective of this study was to develop low-cost sensor technology, in order to capture noise exposure data on a 24-hour basis for study participants. The final product was a Bluetooth Low Energy noise microphone/sensor, connected to a special app developed for Apple iOS/Android devices. A total of 19 study participants (12 male, 7 female; 17 enlisted, 2 officer) were consented at Moody AFB, GA. Field data collection over a 7-10 day period yielded 10,607 noise events, defined as being 70 dB. The majority (77 percent) were low noise events (70 dB, but < 95 dB). Questionnaire data indicated that noise exposures are due to various occupational, environmental, and lifestyle activities. Results include demonstrating the ability to incorporate low-cost technology to capture data to provide insight into types and extent of noise exposures. Further, this TEH approach to characterizing 24-hour noise exposures helps identify potential interventions (personalized care) to reduce the risk of hearing loss. Potential interventions include increased training, audiograms, and medical monitoring. Data on preferred types of hearing protection devices, e.g., foam plugs, ear muffs, custom-fitted plugs, were also gathered.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 01, 2019
- Accession Number
- AD1071653
Entities
People
- Dirk P. Yamamoto
- James W. Kurzdorfer
- Kathy L. Fullerton