Noise exposure of truck drivers: a comparative study.
To investigate the extent of noise exposure to which truck drivers are subjected, a comparison was made of the noise levels in the cabs of two different brands of trucks. Both brands were manufactured with identical engines. The equivalent continuous A-weighted sound pressure levels, maximum sound pressure levels, and percentage noise dose were determined. This study sought to determine if truck drivers are exposed to excessive noise inside the cabs of these trucks. Furthermore, the most beneficial working environment in terms of the brand used was investigated. No significant differences regarding the individual noise exposure of the truck drivers were found (P > 0.05). Based on comparison of measured noise exposures to existing criteria, it was determined that the noise exposures of truck drivers are potentially hazardous to their hearing.
van den Heever
D J
DJ
Technikon Free State, Department of Environmental Sciences, Bloemfontein, South Africa.
Roets
F J
FJ
D006801:Humans; D018986:Motor Vehicles / Q000145:classification*; D009623:Noise, Occupational; D016273:Occupational Exposure / Q000032:analysis*