Simulation of noise exposure level of fire-fighters in emergency response services in Malaysia

Abstract

Abstract Excessive exposure to noise may lead to noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL). NIHL has emerged as the biggest cause of world occupational disease in recent years. Occupational hearing loss is among the common work related diseases in Malaysia. It has been proven that occupational NIHL shows the highest number of cases compared to other occupational diseases. Many occupational noise exposure studies have been conducted in various occupational sectors. However, no studies have been done on noise exposure of fire-fighters in Malaysia. This study aims to determine noise intensity and noise dose exposed to the fire-fighters during emergency response activity, to develop fire-fighter noise exposure indicator profile, and to propose solutions in order to reduce potential hearing loss among fire-fighters. Noise measurement from sirens emitted from truck and sirens at the station was carried out at Taman Universiti Fire Station using Sound Level Meter (SLM). Measurement was conducted on all pieces of equipment on truck including power saw, circular saw, hydraulic power unit, generator set, air compressor, and high and low pump. In order to assess the noise dose, a list of noise-producing equipment and the estimated total time of exposure is provided. Once the data had been analysed, an indicator system was constructed. As anticipated, all types of sirens and equipment produced noise greater than 85db except for noise emitted from AlarmCAD lite, emergency siren and generator set. Useful exposure indicator profile and solutions were proposed to reduce fire-fighters potential hearing loss.