University music teachers' exposure to noise and hearing loss

Abstract

Musical instruments and singers' voices can reach high sound pressure values representing a risk to hearing health, which is of particular relevance for music teachers. Therefore, the potential risk of hearing damage among music teachers in a university school of music was assessed. Twenty teachers completed all phases of the study. Sound pressure levels were measured with a sound meter and daily noise exposure levels were computed and compared with legal reference values in force. Three types of hearing exams were administered to all teachers by health technicians. Most teachers (75%) were subjected to daily noise exposure levels below 80 dB(A). Teaching to play brass instruments appears to be the most risky activity. Only three subjects were diagnosed with noise-induced hearing loss, which cannot be exclusively ascribed to occupational activities because they are involved in extracurricular activities. Increased sample size and the use of noise dosimetry would have improved the study conclusions.