Originally Posted by
NotAHobby7
Other sources (NIOSH, WHO), say prolonged exposure above 70 dB should be avoided. I’m not trying to win an argument, just saying that some credible scientific sources say one thing, and I’ll personally take steps to protect my hearing, being deaf in my old age doesn’t really seem fun.
NIOSH Criteria for a Recommended Standard: Occupational Noise Exposure
The NIOSH recommended exposure limit (REL) for occupational noise exposure (85 decibels, A-weighted, as an 8-hour time-weighted average [85 dBA as an 8-hr TWA]) was reevaluated using contemporary risk assessment techniques and incorporating the 4000-hertz (Hz) audiometric frequency in the definition of hearing impairment. The new risk assessment reaffirms support for the 85-dBA REL.
https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/topics/noi...tprograms.html
The World Health Organization essentially says the same:
https://www.who.int/occupational_hea...occupnoise/en/
I’m not trying to win an argument either, I am simply trying to keep things factually correct. I personally like to wear a headset whenever I am flying but that’s just because I feel I can make out both cockpit and ATC communications better that way. But being junior, in an environment where it’s safe, I’m not going to wear a headset if the CA isn’t wearing his/hers. When I upgrade I plan on both me and the FO wearing headsets from engine start to shutdown. But that’s me.
And while there might be some biological variance - and almost certainly is - I know of no credible scientific source that believes a 40 hr week 8 hour a day time weighted average of 70dB is harmful to anyone. If you have one I’ll be glad to stand corrected, but it isn’t going to be NIOSH or WHO.
