Noise exposure tackled safely through ear protection

The main result from this project is a method for automatic hearing threshold monitoring based on procedures for statistical process control. The results from frequent self-administered audiometry tests are monitored automatically. Deviations that indicate an emerging hearing loss will be detected at a much earlier stage than with today's test regime

The project comprises the following research activities: 1. Perform research related to the analysis of data primarily from offshore use of QP100ex. These data comprise the noise exposure and hearing development in groups and on an individual level for wo rkers exposed to high noise levels. 2. Strengthen the barriers to hearing loss by developing proactive and predictive indicators for noise-induced hearing loss based on the extensive material that will be collected. 3. Study exposure levels and hearing de velopment of personnel performing especially noisy operations, e.g. sandblasting, high pressure flushing and needle picking. 4. Study exposure levels and hearing development in other known high risk groups such as helideck personnel. 5. Study the influenc e on hearing damage of other risk factors such as age, previous noise induced hearing damage, high noise sensitivity, etc. 6. Study changes in exposure level and hearing development as a result of special noise-reducing measures and actions. 7. Study poss ible changes in hearing thresholds before and after the work intervals to assess differences in exposure between work, leisure and restitution. 8. Study the degree of noise protection offered by the HPD under real working conditions. 9. Contribute to inte rnational meetings and congresses through publications