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Hearing damage risk to divers operating noisy tools under water
Scandinavian Journal of Work, Environment & Health
|December 1, 1981
Summary
Underwater noise from tools can reach hazardous levels up to 170.5 dB(A). While divers' gear offers some protection, prolonged exposure may risk hearing damage, confirmed by hearing damage risk criteria.
Area of Science:
- Occupational Health
- Acoustics
- Marine Engineering
Background:
- Underwater work involves significant noise exposure.
- Standard protective equipment may not fully mitigate risks.
- Diver hearing health is a critical concern in occupational safety.
Purpose of the Study:
- To measure underwater noise levels from common industrial tools.
- To assess the potential risk of hearing damage to divers.
- To compare measured noise levels with established hearing damage risk criteria.
Main Methods:
- Noise levels were measured near divers' heads during operation of a pneumatic rock drill and high-pressure water jet lances.
- Decibel (dB(A)) and pressure (μPa) measurements were recorded.
- Temporary threshold shifts were assessed and compared to hearing damage risk criteria.
Main Results:
- Noise levels reached up to 170.5 dB(A) near divers.
- Noise is attenuated by hard hats/hoods and physiological factors.
- Temporary threshold shifts suggest potential for hearing damage with prolonged exposure.
Conclusions:
- Underwater work noise levels can exceed safe limits.
- Divers' hearing may be at risk from prolonged exposure to high-intensity noise.
- Further research and protective measures are warranted to safeguard diver hearing.