Abstract
The aim of this study was to determine if high-powered air hand dryers produce sufficient noise to warrant concern over acoustic trauma as determined by federally established standards. Prospective observational field data collection SETTING: Urban and suburban community SUBJECTS AND METHODS: Using a NIOSH developed and calibrated soundmeter app, powered hand dryers were measured throughout two metropolitan areas. Ear level measurements were performed while drying wet hands. Recorded variables included average LAeq, Time-Weighted Average, Max and Peak Levels, Noise Dose, and Projected Dose according to NIOSH and OSHA standards, and all three major weighting networks (A, C, and Z). Fifty-four trials were performed at 27 locations. Average dryer run time was 28.9s (range 14-45s). Average LAeq (dBA), average maximum level (dBA), and average TWA (dBA) were 90.46±5.32, 94.86±5.73, 59.90±6.80, respectively. The noise generated exceeded published manufacturer specifications. However, even with estimated cumulative daily exposure, the noise generated by these dryers did not exceed federal safety standards. Air-powered hand dryers produce noise output at a level that many would find subjectively uncomfortable with some brands/models consistently producing noise in excess of 90dBA. Nonetheless, these dryers do not produce sound exceeding NIOSH standards for noise exposure.
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