An introduction to the measurement of sound

The need for greater interest and participation in hearing conservation on the part of otolaryngologists, audiologists, and others is growing. Ever increasing numbers of people are being handicapped by noise induced hearing impairment. This costly damage is not curable but is preventable. Complaints of noise or annoyance must be investigated, and the primary tool for investigation is the sound level meter. It can be used by anyone with some basic knowledge to identify hazardous noise levels. Understanding the parts of the meter, the standards governing its construction, the basic steps in reading hazardous noise levels, including sources of error, methods of reporting the readings and knowing where expert assistance is available form the basis for monitoring hazardous noise levels. The following references contain material that can be used for additional study and sources of professional help. The number of publications dealing with noise has, as with the number of instruments and companies dealing with noise, risen sharply in the last three years. The sources listed constitute only a small portion of those available. These are selected for their detailed information, or their concrete and practical approach in providing immediately useful information, and for their usefulness as sources for further study materials or help with your hearing conservation program.