Military and police small arms firing range noise assessments

Abstract

Firing ranges are by their nature sources of very loud noise that can damage the hearing of on-site shooters and observers while also potentially causing a noise disturbance off-site. Small arms firing ranges are typically indoor ranges when located in urban or suburban settings, but when located in rural settings, they are typically outdoor ranges designed with varying types and degrees of noise abatement or no noise abatement at all, depending on the setting. Public firing ranges can be busy and in continuous use under good lighting and favorable weather conditions. Often there are wait times. Military and police (M&P) firing ranges are typically active under scheduled usage times. Both M&P ranges host a variety of small arms, from fully automatic and semi-automatic weapons, to bolt-action sniper rifles and large caliber side arms, all of which are very loud. It is often mandatory for M&P personnel to undergo shooting practice on a regular basis and with some assigned personnel having certification or qualification performance requirements. Several examples of military and police firing ranges, with their issues, similarities and differences, are discussed and personnel and community noise abatement measures are identified for these indoor and outdoor firing ranges.