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Sperian Hearing Protection, LLC |
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Noise Exposure With Radio Earmuffs Explained In New Sound Source™ Bulletin Released By Howard Leight -- Bulletin discusses difference between headset radios and radio-equipped hearing protectors -- Explains how to calculate effective noise exposure in various work environments -- To download a PDF of Sound Source #3, click on Articles at: Smithfield, RI -- The question of whether radio earmuffs provide protection or add damaging noise is addressed in a new Sound Source™ bulletin recently released by Howard Leight. Authored by Brad Witt, Audiology and Regulatory Affairs Manager for Sperian Hearing Protection, LLC, and available on the Howard Leight website, Sound Source #3, "Radio Earmuffs & Noise Exposure," discusses the difference between headset radios and hearing protector earmuffs equipped with AM/FM radios, and explains how to calculate effective noise exposure while wearing them. "When headset radios first appeared in stores several decades ago, they were not marketed as hearing protectors," says Witt, adding that this was, "a good thing, since they offered very little attenuation of noise. At some frequencies, the headsets were even found to amplify background noise (with the radio turned off) due to resonance in the earcup." To be a hearing protector, says Witt, an earmuff must be designed to be a hearing protector from the start. The volume settings of typical portable stereo headsets have been measured as high as 96 dBA at 100% volume, "a hazardous noise level if listened to continuously for several hours. Ideally, a radio headset should allow the enjoyment of music at safe levels, but also reduce the background disturbance in a noisy environment." Today's new hearing protectors do just that, he reports. Built-in radios contain circuitry that limits their maximum radio volume. When the radio is turned on, for example, the sound output is electronically limited to 82 dB. But the questions that concern many are: When using these earmuffs in an industrial setting, won't the radio simply add more noise to damage hearing? And what are the noise levels under the earcup when the radio is turned on? "When two noise sources are added together, the decibels are added logarithmically, not arithmetically," Witt explains. "For example, the sum of two 90 dB sound sources would equal 93 dB." The Sound Source bulletin goes on to provide a chart, illustrating the effective noise exposure levels for a typical radio earmuff worn in 90 and 100 dB of noise. "Since the radio output is limited to a safe 82 dB maximum, the radio adds very little noise to effective exposures in high noise levels," Witt concludes. "In a high-noise job that is also repetitive or monotonous, a radio earmuff can add significantly to worker satisfaction and enjoyment, without sacrificing hearing protection." To download a free copy of Sound Source #3, click on Articles at: Since its beginnings as a one-man operation more than 30 years ago, Howard Leight by Sperian has grown into one of the largest global manufacturers of hearing protectors in the industrial market and the recognized innovator in protection and people-oriented fit. Howard Leight offers the widest variety of hearing protection devices and technology, ranging from the highest attenuating Max® single-use earplug, to SmartFit® earplugs with Conforming Material Technology(TM) -- which delivers a more personalized fit -- to VeriPRO(TM), the new industry-changing fit verification system for hearing protectors. Utilizing Bilsom® Technology, Howard Leight earmuffs raise the bar on innovative design, performance and comfort, with features like padded wire headbands, high-visibility designs, unique sound management technologies and multi-level attenuation options. Visit Howard Leight online at http://www.howardleight.com With nearly 6000 employees worldwide, Sperian Protection is resolutely geared towards international markets. The world leader in personal protective equipment (hearing, eye, respiratory and fall protection, gloves, clothing and footwear), the Group offers innovative products adapted to high-risk environments so that all workers in the manufacturing and services industries can work with confidence. Sperian Protection is listed on Euronext's Eurolist and on the SBF120. For additional information, contact: Photo Caption ref: SPR8185.rv1007 |
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