Noise Exposure Assessment for University Police Officers during Rifle and Shotgun Qualifications

Abstract

Police and other law enforcement officers are routinely exposed to hazardous noise levels during normal working conditions. Occupational noise exposure is a known risk factor for noise-induced hearing loss and other documented non-auditory health effects of significant public health importance. The purpose of this study was to assess noise exposures among a convenient and representative sample of police officers and instructors at a University in Kentucky during routine rifle and shotgun qualifications at an outdoor firing range. The assessment was conducted among 17 police officers and 2 instructors over a period of 3 days in accordance with the requirements of national noise standards (29 CFR 1910.95) stipulated by the United States Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). We measured both personal and area sound pressure levels using calibrated noise dosimeters and sound level meters. Average personal noise levels during shotgun and rifle qualifications ranged from 74 to 101 dBA and 90 to 101 dBA, respectively. The results of area noise measurements for shotgun and rifle ranged from 107 to 121 dBA and 106 to 114 dBA, respectively. Without consideration of hearing protection, personal exposures exceeded OSHA's noise standards (i.e., Permissible Exposure Limit of 90 dBA and Action Level of 85 dBA,. The results indicate potential health risks from continuous noise exposures among these police officers and instructors. Recommendations are made for continued adherence to and reinforcement of all elements of OSHA's hearing conservation program.