AbstractsMedical & Health Science

This study characterized the noise levels in a high-school to assess the exposure of students and school personnel by measuring one-minute averages of dBA and dBC for a few weeks during area sampling in almost all functional spaces of the high-school using noise dosimeters (Larson Davis SparkTM Model Number 705+). The highest level of noise was observed during pep rally with the levels ranging 59-107 dBA and a mean (SD) and median of 88 (16) and 97 dBA, respectively. Lunch periods showed noise levels ranging 61-90 dBA with a mean (SD) and median of 79 (4) and 79 dBA, respectively. Gym sports had noise levels ranging 58-113 dBA with a mean (SD) and median of 75 (8) and 78 dBA. The noise levels in the metals shop ranged 55-99 dBA with mean (SD) and median of 77 (4.6) and 77 dBA, respectively. The noise levels in the classrooms, hallways and other locations were, on average, below 71 dBA. Overall the levels of noise at school ranged 48-113 dBA with a mean (SD) and median of 66 (9) and 64 dBA, respectively. The peak noise levels ranged 105-153 dBC. The results of this study indicate that there are potentially harmful noise exposures within the high school.