Influence of noise spectra on auditory frequencies & degree of temporary threshold shift

Influence of noise spectra on auditory frequencies of 131 audiometrically normal human volunteers was assessed. Each subject was exposed to four different types of noise on different days for a period of 30 min. Noises utilized in this study were broadband noise (100 dBA), broadband noise (BBN) mixed independently with tones of 0.5, 1.2 and 4 kHz at three intensity levels (85, 95 and 105 dBA) and noises of different bandwidths (100 dBA) around the above tones as centre frequencies. BBN produced maximum TTS2 at 4 kHz (21.42 +/- 0.61 to 26.15 +/- 1.00 dB), while concentration of sound energy around these tones, affected hearing at one-half octave above the point of concentration of sound energy. TTS2 produced by 4 kHz tonal component of 95 and 105 dBA and 2 kHz of 105 dBA were significantly higher than the one produced by BBN at 4 kHz. The single tones of 2 and 4 kHz and noise of 1/3rd octave bandwidth (cf 4 kHz) produced TTS2s which were significantly higher as compared to that of BBN at 4 kHz. At the same centre frequency, noise concentrated in thinner bands was more injurious than that in the thicker bands. Lower frequencies of hearing appears to be more resistant to noise as for the same sound pressure level the TTS2 observed in low frequencies was less as compared to higher frequencies.