Noise exposure among teachers in technology educational shops in selected British Columbia, Canada, high schools

Teachers in technology education shops (TESs) in high schools are at risk from exposure to occupational hazards, including physical work demands and chemicals, particulate matter and noise, as well as non-optimal working conditions negatively affected by temperature, humidity, and lighting. This study evaluated the exposure to noise of 17 TES teachers working in 17 wood-working, metal-working, and automotive shops in selected high schools in British Columbia, Canada, and examined the quality of the acoustical teaching environments due to background noise. This study characterized noise control measures in the sampled TESs and observed the safety practices of teachers during TES classes. The results of this investigation indicated that almost 60% of the participating teachers were exposed to unacceptable levels of noise during teaching and working in TESs. It also showed that TES acoustical environmental quality was adversely affected by high background noise levels due to poor room designs and settings. Practical recommendations were provided to reduce and control the exposure to noise in TESs and to enhance the quality of health, safety, and quality of teaching environment in these TESs.