Abstract
Objective To identify the risk to the ambulance drivers from the siren systems of their rescue vehicles.
 Study design This was a cross sectional study.
 Place duration This study was carried out at two rescue centres, namely, Gulberg and Johar Town areas of Lahore, where the ambulances were parked.
 Methodology A sound pressure meter was used to measure the sound intensity inside and in the vicinity of the ambulance in use. This was done in two centers in Lahore in 10 vehicles.
 Result It was evident that the ambulance drivers are constantly exposed to unsuitable and noxious levels of noise which can over time damage their hearing. A recommendation is contributed regarding hearing assessment for ambulance drivers and their compulsory periodical hearing assessment.
 Conclusion
 The sirens in the Pakistani ambulances have almost the same sound intensity levels as the ones abroad which can have a damaging effect on the inner ear. Pakistani ambulance drivers should wear ear protection while in their vehicles to protect against ear damage.
Highlights
This study sets out to identify any risk from the noise generated by the siren system to the regular user of an emergency vehicle in Lahore
Ambulances worldwide have various siren systems mounted on top but most end up producing sounds which can be injurious to the cochlea especially if allowed to be exposed for an extended period of time[1]
In the UK, the allowable sound exposure is limited to 8 hours of a 85dBA noise on a daily basis, this will be a maximum noise at a peak sound pressure that one is allowed to be exposed to on a daily basis
Summary
Ambulances worldwide have various siren systems mounted on top but most end up producing sounds which can be injurious to the cochlea especially if allowed to be exposed for an extended period of time[1]. It seems that vehicle siren location makes a difference in the sound pressure level inside the ambulance cabin as well. In a busy urban setting there are several acoustic stimuli at work of various intensities and frequencies, an effective alerting siren should be able to have sufficient “masking’ effect to overcome the noises in the vicinity of the ambulance from passengers in a car, fans, audio and wind[3]
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