Document Type

Report

Publisher

Utah State University

Publication Date

11-11-2023

First Page

1

Last Page

33

Abstract

An assessment was conducted by students from the USU Industrial Hygiene Program on November 11th, 2023, to determine the noise exposure of USU Army ROTC Cadets involved in firing a 75 mm howitzer cannon at home football games. The assessment utilized personal dosimetry and sound level mapping to measure peak noise (Lzpk), average noise level (Lavg), and time-weighted average (TWA) levels. Findings indicate that two of the sampled Cadets were exposed above the Department of Defense (DOD) peak noise exposure limit and all three exceeded Lavg limits. The given recommendations include continuing the use of hearing protection devices (HPDs) and implementing routine training concerning the limitations of hearing protection devices in controlling noise exposure. The provided hearing protection is deemed to be adequate if worn correctly, but it is suggested to consider using earmuffs as primary hearing protection due to the ease of donning and doffing them. Appendices include a peak noise sound level map, personal dosimetry data, and sampling plan details. The sound level map shows the instantaneous noise that occurs for a fraction of a second. Peak noise levels contributed to the determination that hearing protection is needed. The needed NRR was calculated using the Lavg results.

Comments

John Flores advised and oversaw this assessment project.

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