Impulsive exposures from ceremonial and signal cannons

Abstract

Cannons, small firearms, and starter pistols are sometimes used with blank charges during sporting events, ceremonies, and historical re-enactments. The sound levels produced by such devices are not widely known, and it is possible that the personnel discharging them could underestimate the potential risk to hearing. Depending upon the proximity to participants and spectators, the sound levels produced by such devices can be potentially hazardous. The exposures have not been widely examined because they fall outside of regulations and standards that cover typical occupational or military exposures. This presentation describes the acoustic characteristics and exposure limits for two large-caliber ceremonial cannons and a signal cannon. The cannons produced impulses between 150 and 174 dB peak sound pressure level (SPL) and 8-h equivalent A-weighted levels ranging between 60 and 108 dBA, respectively. In addition, measurements from small firearms and starter pistols are presented, which produced sound levels between 145 and 165 dB SPL. Such sound levels exceed the various occupational recommended and permissible exposure limits. This paper provides recommendations for noise and administrative controls for all personnel within 15 m of the ceremonial cannons and 10 m of the signal cannon. Double hearing protection should be required during all activities.Cannons, small firearms, and starter pistols are sometimes used with blank charges during sporting events, ceremonies, and historical re-enactments. The sound levels produced by such devices are not widely known, and it is possible that the personnel discharging them could underestimate the potential risk to hearing. Depending upon the proximity to participants and spectators, the sound levels produced by such devices can be potentially hazardous. The exposures have not been widely examined because they fall outside of regulations and standards that cover typical occupational or military exposures. This presentation describes the acoustic characteristics and exposure limits for two large-caliber ceremonial cannons and a signal cannon. The cannons produced impulses between 150 and 174 dB peak sound pressure level (SPL) and 8-h equivalent A-weighted levels ranging between 60 and 108 dBA, respectively. In addition, measurements from small firearms and starter pistols are presented, which produced sound level...