Related Experiment Videos
A method to measure speaking time and speech sound pressure level
1Finnish Institute of Occupational Health, Helsinki, Finland. Erkko.Airo@occuphealth.fi
Summary
A new, accessible method measures vocal load by recording speaking time and sound levels. This tool aids in assessing voice use across professions and evaluating voice therapy effectiveness.
Area of Science:
- Speech and Hearing Sciences
- Occupational Health
- Biomedical Engineering
Background:
- Voice disorders are frequently linked to vocal loading.
- Accurate measurement of vocal load has been a significant challenge.
- Existing methods for vocal load assessment are not easily accessible.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and validate an accessible method for measuring vocal load.
- To provide a practical tool for quantifying voice use in occupational settings.
- To enable objective assessment of speaking performance and voice therapy outcomes.
Main Methods:
- Utilized modern noise exposure analyzers to record speaking time and sound pressure levels during normal work.
- Data was transferred to a personal computer for analysis.
- Calculations were performed using spreadsheet software to determine vocal speaking time and associated sound pressure levels.
Main Results:
- The developed method successfully recorded speaking time and sound levels in various work environments, including noisy settings.
- The system demonstrated feasibility for practical application in assessing vocal load.
- The method provides quantitative data on voice use.
Conclusions:
- An easily accessible method for measuring vocal load has been established.
- This method can be applied to assess voice demands in different professions.
- The technique offers a valuable tool for evaluating individual speaking performance and the efficacy of voice therapy.