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[Noise in military service--the current problem]
Dariusz Jurkiewicz1, Ireneusz Kantor
1WIM, Klinika Otolaryngologii CSK MON, Warszawa.
Polski Merkuriusz Lekarski : Organ Polskiego Towarzystwa Lekarskiego
|December 20, 2005
Summary
Military training poses significant noise exposure risks, leading to hearing loss in 95.8% of recruits. This study examines Polish and NATO noise regulations and their impact on hearing health in the Armed Forces.
Area of Science:
- Occupational Health
- Military Medicine
- Audiology
Background:
- Excessive noise exposure is an unavoidable risk during military training, essential for combat readiness.
- Existing norms and regulations have not fully resolved the persistent noise problem within the Armed Forces.
- A high percentage (95.8%) of recruits are rejected due to hearing issues during selection.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze current noise exposure issues in the Polish Armed Forces.
- To compare Polish military noise regulations with NATO standards.
- To evaluate noise levels in training environments and discuss infrasound hazards.
Main Methods:
- Review of Polish Armed Forces and NATO noise exposure regulations.
- Evaluation of noise levels experienced on military target ranges.
- Discussion of disability rulings related to service-connected hearing impairment.
Main Results:
- Significant noise exposure risks are inherent in military training scenarios.
- A substantial proportion of military recruits face hearing problems, leading to rejection.
- Infrasound hazards present an additional, often overlooked, risk factor.
Conclusions:
- Current regulations may be insufficient to mitigate noise-induced hearing loss in military personnel.
- Further research and stricter adherence to or revision of noise control measures are necessary.
- Addressing both audible noise and infrasound is crucial for preserving hearing health in the Armed Forces.