Estimation of Occupational Noise–Induced Hearing Loss Using Kurtosis-Adjusted Noise Exposure Levels

Conclusions: Because non-Gaussian complex noise is ubiquitous in many industries, the temporal characteristics of noise (i.e., kurtosis) must be taken into account in evaluating occupational NIHL. A kurtosis-adjusted LAeq,8h with an adjustment coefficient of 6.5 allows a more accurate prediction of high-frequency NIHL. Relying on a single value (i.e., 85 dBA) as a recommended exposure limit does not appear to be sufficient to protect the hearing of workers exposed to complex noise.
Source: Ear and Hearing - Category: Audiology Tags: Research Article Source Type: research