Controlling Impulse Noise Hazards: Programmatic Model for Developing Validated Exposure Standards
Abstract
Blast producing weapons such as artillery cannons, mortars, and rockets can produce serious hearing loss among combat troops. Effective control of the risks of hearing loss requires realistic, valid standards for noise hazard evaluation and materiel design. Unfortunately, current Army standards for impulse noise are neither founded on a thorough scientific database nor validated for operational scenarios. These limitations make it difficult to balance the requirement for improved weapons against the need to protect crewmembers' hearing. In support of the Army's Health Hazard Assessment Program, A multiphase research model has been developed to provide a scientific foundation for valid impulse noise standards. The model constitutes a blueprint of the programmatic building blocks required to achieve the ultimate goal of realistics, effective standards applicable to a broad spectrum of weapons. Laboratory and field research methods are used to establish a systematic, comprehensive database relating auditory injury to critical noise parameters. The model culminates in validation of new standards under realistic field conditions. The new noise exposure standards can be translated into hearing conservation standards, materiel design standards, and noise hazard assessment procedures.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 1986
- Accession Number
- ADA181430
Entities
People
- Bruce C. Leibrecht
- James H. Patterson Jr.
Organizations
- United States Army Aeromedical Research Lab