Sound Level Meter Research Articles

Mapping critical soil moisture thresholds of water stress for global grasslands

The critical soil moisture threshold (SMth) of plant water stress distinguishes whether vegetation is in an energy-limited or water-limited regime. Accurate quantification of SMth for grasslands holds significant implications for drought monitoring and efficient grassland management. However, our understanding of SMth within global grasslands remains limited. In this study, we investigated the relationship between SMth and environmental factors and mapped the global SMth for grasslands based on the estimated SMth across FLUXNET sites. Firstly, SMth was identified and estimated for 18 distinct grassland sites. Then, the factors significantly affecting SMth were investigated and the global SMth for grasslands was predicted using an empirical linear model. Our results showed that SMth was significantly positively correlated with mean annual soil moisture (SM), mean annual precipitation (PRE), and maximum annual LAI (LAImax), while negatively correlated with vapor pressure deficit (VPD) and shortwave radiation (RAD). These factors collectively constrain SMth well, with the coefficient of determination of 0.79. The estimated mean SMth for global grasslands from 2000 to 2021 is 27.8%, with a range from 1.3% to 55.2%. The SMth values are lower in the northern hemisphere than that in the southern hemisphere. The highest values of SMth, exceeding 40.0%, are mainly distributed in Brazil, Peru, Southern Europe, New Zealand and the Tibetan Plateau. In contrast, the lowest values, failing below 20.0%, are mainly distributed in Northern Canada, Greenland, Central African Savannah and Kazakhstan. The SMth is markedly lower in the arid region than that in the tropical and temperate regions. The quantified SMth in this study could provide a direct way to determine whether and to what extent grasslands are subjected to water stress, which would greatly facilitate the study of drought or water stress effects on vegetation growth for grassland ecosystems.

Work and Environment Related Characteristics Associated with Voice Disorders among Primary School Teachers

The objective of this study is to assess work and environment related factors associated with voice disorders among primary school teachers in the Colombo district in Sri Lanka. Methods: An institution based cross sectional study was conducted among 790 primary school teachers, in the Colombo District in Sri Lanka. They were selected by a stratified random sampling method. The validated Voice Handicap Index (VHI-30) questionnaire and a self-administered questionnaire were used for data collection. Sound levels within 10 selected classrooms were measured objectively using CR:303 sound level meter (Cirrus). Data analysis was by bivariate method with chi squared and logistic regression. Results: Among the work related characteristics assessed teaching 5 or more subjects (OR=1.40, CI = 1.039, 2.90), staying after school hours (OR=1.69, CI = 1.19, 2.38) were significantly associated with voice disorders. Among the factors associated with work environment, teachers having a speech pattern in yelling and shouting category (OR=2.25, CI=1.68, 2.99), speaking in noisy environments (OR=1.09, CI= 1.15, 3.15), being exposed to smoky dusty environments (OR = 1.61, CI= 1.19, 2.16), having average or high dust levels in classrooms (OR=2.03, OR=1.50, 2.76), having a moderate to high noise level in classrooms (OR= 1.93, CI=1.45, 2.58) and having ‘just adequate, inadequate and average’ space in a classroom (OR=1.74, CI=1.29, 2.34) were significantly associated with voice disorders. The sound levels objectively measured in classrooms revealed that all classrooms had higher than acceptable noise levels during a teaching session. Conclusions and recommendations: The association of voice disorders with work related characteristics were similar to the findings in other studies. However, the high noise levels detected in the classrooms on objective measurement were high. It is recommended that these findings be addressed through a multidisciplinary approach and National standards for acceptable noise levels within classrooms be established.

Investigating the Sound Absorption Properties of Silk Cotton and Other Sound-Absorbent Materials

This research investigates the acoustic properties of various materials to mitigate sound transmission and enhance acoustic environments, focusing on silk cotton, cotton wool, chipped foam, and open-cell polyurethane foam. The study evaluates these materials for sound absorption and reduction, considering sound frequency and material density. Materials were tested for their sound reduction and absorption coefficients, with silk cotton emerging as the most effective across a broad frequency spectrum, particularly below 200 Hz and above 1000 Hz. The research demonstrated that silk cotton, with its high porosity and fine fibre structure, achieved significant sound reduction even at low densities The findings align with theoretical predictions of resonance frequencies, showing a strong correlation (r2 = 0.9988 for the sound box and r2 = 0.9894 for the sound pipe). Sound intensity and sound pressure levels were measured using a sound level meter, and data analysis was conducted using graphing and calculating software. The researcher employed modified laboratory methods to account for loose materials and equipment limitations, validating the use of theoretical equations to estimate sound absorption and reduction properties The study provides some insights into using fibrous materials like silk cotton for noise reduction and acoustic enhancement. These findings have practical implications for improving sound quality in various environments, such as schools, studios, and public spaces, contributing to noise reduction strategies and enhancing auditory experiences.

Assessing the affective quality of soundscape for individuals: Using third-party assessment combined with an artificial intelligence (TPA-AI) model

When investigating the relationship between the acoustic environment and human wellbeing, there is a potential problem resulting from data source self-correlation. To address this data source self-correlation problem, we proposed a third-party assessment combined with an artificial intelligence (TPA-AI) model. The TPA-AI utilized acoustic spectrograms to assess the soundscape's affective quality. First, we collected data on public perceptions of urban sounds (i.e., inviting 100 volunteers to label the affective quality of 7051 10-s audios on a polar scale from annoying to pleasant). Second, we converted the labeled audios to acoustic spectrograms and used deep learning methods to train the TPA-AI model, achieving a 92.88 % predictive accuracy for binary classification. Third, geographic ecological momentary assessment (GEMA) was used to log momentary audios from 180 participants in their daily life context, and we employed the well-trained TPA-AI model to predict the affective quality of these momentary audios. Lastly, we compared the explanatory power of the three methods (i.e., sound level meters, sound questionnaires, and the TPA-AI model) when estimating the relationship between momentary stress level and the acoustic environment. Our results indicate that the TPA-AI's explanatory power outperformed the sound level meter, while using a sound questionnaire might overestimate the effect of the acoustic environment on momentary stress and underestimate other confounders.

Analysis of Noise Level in Soekarno Hatta International Airport Area

One of the environmental impacts in the operation of an airport is noise, which originates from aircraft activities. Soekarno-Hatta International Airport is a public service airport located in Tangerang. This study aims to determine the noise levels around Soekarno-Hatta International Airport.The research results indicate that the noise levels of aircraft around Soekarno-Hatta International Airport in the northern part were collected using a sound level meter and then analyzed using the Weighted Equivalent Continuous Perceived Noise Level (WECPNL) method from aircraft landing activities. The results show that the noise intensity is categorized within the Weighted Equivalent Continuous Noise Level (WECPNL) range from ≥ 75 to ≥ 80 dBA.The researchers suggest that the airport authorities conduct regular noise measurements to monitor and control noise levels following the established noise standards and regulations to prevent direct impacts on the surrounding communities of Soekarno-Hatta International Airport

Quieting the neonatal intensive care unit: A quality improvement initiative.

The neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) is vital for preterm infants but is often plagued by harmful noise levels. Excessive noise, ranging from medical equipment to conversations, poses significant health risks, including hearing impairment and neurodevelopmental issues. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends strict sound limits to safeguard neonatal well-being. Strategies such as education, environmental modifications, and quiet hours have shown to reduce noise levels. However, up to 60% of the noises remain avoidable. High noise exposure exacerbates physiological disturbances, impacting vital functions and long-term neurological outcomes. Effective noise reduction in the NICU is crucial for promoting optimal neonatal development. To measure the sound levels in a NICU and reduce ambient sound levels by at least 10% from baseline. A quasi-experimental quality improvement project was conducted over 4 mo in a 20-bed level 3 NICU in a tertiary care medical college. Baseline noise levels were recorded continuously using a sound level meter. The interventions included targeted education, environmental modifications, and organizational changes, and were implemented through three rapid Plan-Do-Study-Act (PDSA) cycles. Weekly feedback and monitoring were conducted, and statistical process control charts were used for analysis. The mean noise values were compared using the paired t-test. The baseline mean ambient noise level in the NICU was 67.8 dB, which decreased to 50.5 dB after the first cycle, and further decreased to 47.4 dB and 51.2 dB after subsequent cycles. The reduction in noise levels was 21% during the day and 28% at night, with an overall decrease of 25% from baseline. The most significant reduction occurred after the first PDSA cycle (mean difference of -17.3 dB, P < 0.01). Peak noise levels decreased from 110 dB to 88.24 dB after the intervention. A multifaceted intervention strategy reduced noise in the NICU by 25% over 4 months. The success of this initiative emphasizes the significance of comprehensive interventions for noise reduction.

Sound pressure level in the speech signal due to the use of a mask or face shield

Introduction: the use of masks and face shields became widespread during the COVID-19 pandemic, but their impact on vocal health, especially in those who use their voice as a work tool, is not yet fully studied. This study investigates the effect of different types of masks and face shields on the sound pressure level of the voice, with special attention to the risk of developing vocal pathologies.Methods: voice recordings were made of 18 participants (11 women and 7 men) in an audiometric booth, measuring the equivalent continuous sound pressure level (Leq) with a sound level meter. The results obtained with different types of masks (surgical, KN95, with transparent window) and a face shield were compared.Results: no significant differences were found in Leq between the groups with and without protective elements. However, it was observed that women tend to increase the intensity of their voice when wearing masks or face shields, which could lead to greater vocal effort and a potential risk of developing long-term vocal pathologies.Conclusions: Although the use of masks and face shields is necessary in certain contexts, it is important to consider the possible consequences for vocal health, especially in women. The use of non-verbal language is recommended to complement communication and avoid combining KN95 masks with face shields when not strictly necessary.

Evaluación de la contaminación urbana por emisiones sonoras registradas con sonómetro y nodos sensores

The increase in noise emissions is associated with an increase in the population, with anthropic activities, and it is in urban centers where a series of effects on both the population and the environment occur. This research The present study covered the evaluation of the noise behavior in the city of Cuenca during 2019, for which monitoring was carried out in 31 points distributed in the city based on the average daily traffic, the ordinance of use and occupation of the land and the dynamics of the population; the The national environmental standard TULSMA (Unified Text of Secondary Legislation of the Ministry of the Environment) was taken as a reference. To establish the comparison of the data collected with a (low-cost, noise level) sensor and a sound level meter, measurements were made in 6 monitoring stations established on the basis of noise complaints made by citizens to the autonomous decentralized municipal government of Cuenca (GAD) and the security conditions to place for the placement of the equipment. The results showed that noise, in the city of Cuenca during 2019, noise is above the TULSMA environmental standard in Zone EQ1 (100 % of the measurements), Zone R1 (96 % of the measurements), Zone CM (100 % of the measurements) and in Zone ID3 / ID4 (72 % of the measurements). There was a high correlation coefficient (r = 0.8) and determination coefficient (R2 &gt;0.6), between the data collected with the sensor and the sound level meter. It is worth highlighting the use of the calibrated sound level meter when making sound measurements with various instruments, as it allows the data to be verified and validated.

Surgeons Who Perform Total Hip Arthroplasty Are at Risk for Noise-Induced Hearing Loss, Especially When Using Automated Broaching.

Noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) is a serious concern for orthopedic surgeons. The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) sets the safe exposure limit at 85 dB for 8 hours, yet operating rooms often surpass this limit. This study investigated if using an automated broaching system exposes orthopedic surgeons to dangerous decibel (dB) levels. A prospective study analyzed 138 intraoperative sound recordings from 92 total hip arthroplasty (THA) surgeries and 46 baseline measurements at an academic-affiliated private practice, using the NIOSH Sound Level Meter (SLM) application and a microphone. The surgeries were categorized into manual and automated broaching. Key metrics measured included maximal dB level (MDL), peak sound pressure (LCpeak), average continuous sound (LAeq), and average weighted sound in an 8-hour period (TWA), along with dose representations, to identify hazardous noise levels. Of the 92 THA sound recordings, 50 used manual broaching and 42 employed automated broaching. Automated broaching exhibited higher noise levels, with an average MDL of 109.92 dBA, a LAeq of 86.09 dBA, a TWA of 76.48 dBA, and a projected noise dose of 137.74%. In contrast, manual broaching exhibited an average MDL of 105.87 dBA, a LAeq of 83.06 dBA, a TWA of 72.82 dBA, and a projected noise dose of 82.02%. This study highlights the auditory risks from automated broach and manual THA surgeries that orthopedic surgeons experience. Manufacturers should focus on reducing instrument noise when designing surgical tools and orthopedic surgeons and operating room staff should take measures to protect themselves from NIHL during surgery. [Orthopedics. 202x;4x(x):xx-xx.].

Analysis of Traffic Noise on the Sutan Soripada Mulia Road, Padang Sidimpuan City

Highways are infrastructure for smooth traffic, both in cities and in regions. Noise and vibration are one of the environmental health problems in large and developing cities, such as Padangsidimpuan City. The transportation sector is the main cause of environmental problems today, according to Minister of Health Regulation No.78/Men.Kes/Per/XI/1987, which is called Noise is the occurrence of unwanted sounds that disturb and/or endanger health. The noise level quality standard is used as a reference standard that ensures that a certain area/region does not cause disturbances, especially to human health and environmental comfort. (Ruly Asmarani, 2017) said that noise is a type of environmental stimulus to which each individual can respond differently. Based on the noise level captured by the SLM (Sound Level Meter), the highest noise level occurs at 07:00 - 08:00 WIB at 72.80 dB compared to other hours and is reviewed based on the characteristics of land use for the school area. The noise level limit value is 55 d.B(A) and the highest noise occurs at 07-08 am with a noise level of 72.8 decibels and the lowest noise occurs at 10-11 WIB with a noise level of 47.8 decibels. From the results of this research, it is recommended that schools close windows during the learning process to reduce the noise caused by passing vehicles.

Biases in Ecoacoustics Analysis: A Protocol to Equalize Audio Recorders.

Eco-acoustic indices allow us to rapidly evaluate habitats and ecosystems and derive information about anthropophonic impacts. However, it is proven that indices' values and trends are not comparable between studies. These incongruences may be caused by the availability on the market of recorders with different characteristics and costs. Thus, there is a need to reduce these biases and incongruences to ensure an accurate analysis and comparison between soundscape ecology studies and habitat assessments. In this study, we propose and validate an audio recording equalization protocol to reduce eco-acoustic indices' biases, by testing three soundscape recorder models: Song Meter Micro, Soundscape Explorer Terrestrial and Audiomoth. The equalization process aligns the signal amplitude and frequency response of the soundscape recorders to those of a type 1 level meter. The adjustment was made in MATLAB R2023a using a filter curve generated comparing a reference signal (white noise); the measurements were performed in an anechoic chamber using 11 audio sensors and a type 1 sound level meter (able to produce a .WAV file). The statistical validation of the procedure was performed on recordings obtained in an urban and Regional Park (Italy) assessing a significant reduction in indices' biases on the Song Meter Micro and Audiomoth.

Comparison of Ensemble vs One-Third Octave Band Averaging of Field Collected Decays

There are two allowable methods to calculate the average decay rate in ASTM E2235 - 20, "Standard Test Method for Determination of Decay Rates for Use in Sound Insulation Test Methods". The first averages the data that is presented by the sound level meter for each measurement. The second employs ensemble averaging to create one decay curve and then perform the decay rate calculation on that new curve. Historically, portable sound level meters exported a calculated reverberation time in each one-third octave band for each measurement due to lack of computing power. With the rapid increase in portable computing power, portable sound level meters can now easily perform ensemble averaging. These two methods will be compared. It will be shown that ensemble averaging will produce reliable results with far fewer decays than arithmetic averaging.

Times to stabilize sound metrics in rural areas - How long should you monitor?

In areas dominated by the sound from highway traffic, day-to-day sound ambient sound levels can be relatively constant. However, in rural areas, where wind, animals, machinery, airplane overflights, and occasional or distant traffic play larger roles in their contributions to ambient sound. These sources can change day to day, week to week, and season to season. As a result, there is greater variation in sound levels over time in rural areas than in urban areas. This characteristic also affects how long one should collect data with sound level meters to capture a statistically stable sample. In this study, we evaluate the stabilization of sound level metrics LAeq, LA10, LA50, LA90, and LZeq by 1/3 octave band over time for several rural sites. We present recommendations for monitoring times for each metric such that the variation in levels is relatively stable.

Test method for evaluating the NIOSH Noise Mapper application in a hemi-anechoic chamber

The Noise Mapper Application developed by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) can be used to identify areas in the workplace where workers may be exposed to hazardous noise. The app was created to empower workers to measure sound levels in their workplace, make informed decisions about noise exposure, and prevent occupational hearing loss. To evaluate the maps generated by the app, a single sound source or multiple sources were used to generate steady state sound fields within the NIOSH hemi-anechoic chamber (HAC). A sound level meter (Larson Davis, Model 831C) was used to measure A-weighed equivalent continuous sound levels on a grid with a spacing of 1.5 m (5 ft). The NIOSH Noise Mapper app was then used to generate sound level contour plots with a grid spacing of 3.0 m (10 ft). The accuracy of the map was evaluated by comparing the predicted sound levels with the measured sound levels. The results show the app can estimate the sound levels to within ±1.2 dB(A) of the measured values. The test method used to evaluate the NIOSH Noise Mapper app and the results of the comparison will be discussed in this paper.

Assessment and Analysis of Reverberation Time in Hyder-Burks Arena at Tennessee Technological University

This study addresses the issue of long reverberation times in large-scale arenas, specifically the HyderBurks Arena (HBA) at Tennessee Technological University. HBA primarily hosts cattle shows and agricultural events. The current multi-speaker sound system in the facility ensures audibility, but the long reverberation time accumulates noise that impairs communication and causes dissatisfaction. The objectives of this work conducted as a student project in an undergraduate noise control class include measuring the reverberation time, analyzing the data, researching noise reduction methods, and proposing feasible plans that consider cost, achievability, and ease of implementation. The current reverberation time measured in the arena is approximately 2.313 seconds, posing challenges for speechapplications. The aim was to reduce this to a range of 1.32 to 1.02 seconds. The study employed a Larson Davis Sound Advisor 831C sound level meter to measure the reverberation time at various points in the arena. Despite low-frequency analysis challenges, critical frequencies affecting speech intelligibility were identified. The study also highlights potential issues with the arena’s sound system and the need for a synchronized, centralized speaker system. The assessment revealed that areas near the concrete walls without sound absorption have the maximum T60, indicating the need for treatment. Recommendations include ceiling treatment to reduce the reverberation time and enhance speech intelligibility. The proposed plan, considering cost-effectiveness and financial feasibility, aims to improve the atmosphere and experience for HBA users.

Low Costs Electrical Calibration System of SLM with the Uncertainty Measurements Compared with Primary System Platform Brūel &amp; Kjær type 3630

Sound level meter (SLM) calibration according to IEC61672-1, 2, 3: 2013 is an essential step in the measurement process. It ensures that the SLM meets its specifications. There is a strong need for an efficient and cheap calibration system device for the electrical calibration of SLM since it avoids the body effect and angle sensitivity of the microphone membrane to the sound incidence angle for free field calibration. As well as, it avoids leakage errors due to the microphone fitting in the coupler and the coupler effect in pressure field calibration. This work gives an alternative system device used in the electrical calibration of SLM. This system consists of individual tools; PULSE signal generator, universal frequency counter, HP Dynamic signal analyzer, and DMM voltmeter. All system tools are complying with the IEC17025. The calibration procedures follow the second edition of IEC61672-2. Calibration measurements of frequency, time-weightings, and linearity of range parameters as the major features of SLMs are tested in the frequency range of 31.5 Hz to 16 k Hz. The calibration was repeated 5 times on different days and different warm-up times for devices to estimate the associated uncertainty measurement values in accordance with Part 2 and Part 3 of IEC 61672. The obtained results show that, the calibration measurement deviations are in the allowable tolerance of the IEC 61672-1 and they are comparable with that obtained from the primary Brüel &amp; Kjær (B &amp; K) platform 3630. The computed uncertainty of measurements is in accepted limits that are required by IEC 61672-1 which is determined to the level of confidence of 95%, using coverage factor 2.

Burden and Risk Factors of Occupational Noise-Induced Hearing Loss Among Employees Working at an International Airport in Eastern India

Background: Occupational noise-induced hearing loss (ONIHL) is the commonest occupational disease globally. However, literature on ONIHL in airport employees of developing countries is scarce. Aims: To assess the burden of ONIHL and its associated factors among employees working at an international airport in Eastern India. Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 212 such airport employees who had been working in the airport for &gt;1 year. By stratified random sampling, participants were recruited from airfield, terminal, and administration sections. ONIHL was measured using a portable audiometer and noise exposure using a sound-level meter. Results: The mean age was 34.1 ± 9.2 years, 89.2% were men. The mean year of working in the airport was 7.6 ± 6.3 years. The 8-hour-time-equivalent noise exposure ranged from 56.6 to 86.5 dBA. Approximately 50% of the employees do not wear any hearing protection equipment when working. Prevalence of ONIHL was found to be 7.6%. On multivariable analysis, higher noise exposure and use of hearing protection equipment were found to be positively and negatively associated with ONHIL, respectively. Conclusion: ONIHL was found to be prevalent among employees working at the airport, and focus should be given on reducing noise exposure levels and ensuring use of protective equipment among the employees.

Evaluation of The Feasibility of Wood Working Construction Workshop

This study aims to determine the feasibility level of the Wood Work Construction Workshop of the Civil Engineering Department of FT UNP based on the standards of Permendiknas number 40 of 2008, SNI 03-6575-2001, and ISO 9001: 2008. This research approach uses descriptive qualitative research methods and uses a policy evaluation model. The object of this research is the wood working construction workshop. Data collection techniques were carried out by means of observation, interviews, direct measurement and documentation. The research instrument used a checklist that was used during direct measurement. The technique of obtaining data uses a roller meter, lux meter, sound level meter, thermometer and anemometer. The results of this study are the workshop area according to the standard, the area of hand wood working area according to the standard, the area of wood machinery according to the standard, the area of storage and technician areas according to the standard, the lighting level of the wood workshop in the morning according to the standard, at noon according to the standard, and in the afternoon not according to the standard, workshop natural ventilation air circulation for air temperature in the morning is up to standard, in the afternoon and evening is not up to standard, air humidity in the morning and afternoon is up to standard, in the afternoon is not up to standard, air velocity in the morning and afternoon is not up to standard, in the afternoon is up to standard, sound and noise are up to standard, room temperature in the morning is up to standard, The number of students is according to the standard, the number of technicians is not according to the standard, the implementation of workshop practice is according to the standard, the color of the room is according to the standard, the wood workshop practice equipment for hand tools is according to the standard, the working station tool of the type of tool consists of 4 types not according to the standard and 8 types are according to the standard, Workshop facilities for furniture are according to the standard, educational media are according to the standard, fire protection equipment is not according to the standard, first aid kits are according to the standard, personal protective equipment is not according to the standard, workshop support equipment for electrical contact boxes are according to the standard, trash cans are not according to the standard, information data boards are according to the standard, vacuum is not according to the standard.

RESEARCH OF THE NOISE LOAD OF VEHICLES

Noise can be viewed as an undesirable component of a signal that can affect the quality of perception or transmission of information in a system. In different contexts, the term «noise» may have different meanings, but a common feature is the random impulsive nature of this phenomenon. Automotive noise is sound energy generated by the movement of a vehicle and its components. The study of road traffic noise is an important area, especially in environments where noise can have a significant impact. This includes analyzing noise levels, identifying noise sources, assessing its impact on the environment, and developing strategies to reduce noise. This study analyzes the causes of automobile noise and their noise sources, and provides classification features. The research methodology included measuring the noise level at different points of the bus interior using a specialized acoustic sound level meter Testo 816. The Sound Meter program was additionally used to obtain current time values of noise level changes with graphical data interpretation. When the bus is idling, a monotonous noise load level in the range of 58-63 dB is observed in the cabin, which is typical for a running diesel engine, which is the main source of noise. The movement of the bus in urban conditions is accompanied by a change in traffic conditions, which in turn increases the maximum noise load to 73 dB. The movement of the bus in the city is accompanied by an increase in the noise load up to 74 dB and the equivalent up to 67 dB. This is due to an increase in speed, contact of tires with the asphalt road, interaction of the air environment with bus elements, the appearance of vibrations and other noises.Although the noise load in the bus interior is within the upper permissible limits, it requires the introduction of noise reduction measures, especially for long-distance buses for a comfortable ride for passengers. Therefore, it is important to take noise levels into account when designing and operating vehicles, as well as when planning urban infrastructure projects.

Evaluation of Noise Exposure Levels in Pediatric ENT Operating Rooms.

Operating room (OR) sounds may surpass noise exposure thresholds and induce hearing loss. Noise intensity emitted by various surgical instruments during common pediatric otolaryngologic procedures were compared at the ear-level of the surgeon and patient to evaluate the need for quality improvement measures. Cross-sectional study. Single tertiary care center. Noise levels were measured using the RISEPRO Sound Level Meter and SoundMeter X 10.0.4 at the ear level of surgeon and patient every 5minutes. Operative procedure and instrument type were recorded. Measured noise levels were compared against ambient noise levels and the Apple Watch Noise application. Two hundred forty-two total occasions of noise were recorded across 62 surgical cases. Cochlear implantation surgery produces the loudest case at the ear-level of the patient (91.8Lq Peak dB; P < .001). The otologic drill was the loudest instrument for the patient (92.1Lq Peak dB; P < .001), while the powered microdebrider was the loudest instrument for the surgeon (90.7Lq Peak dB; P = .036). Noise measurements between surgeon and patient were similar (P < .05). Overall agreement between the Noise application and Sound Level Meter was excellent (intraclass correlation coefficient of 0.8, with a 95% confidence interval ranging from 0.32 to 0.92). Otolaryngology OR noises can surpass normal safe thresholds. Failure to be aware of this may unwittingly expose providers to noise-related hearing loss. Mitigation strategies should be employed. Quality improvement measures, including attention to surgical instrument volume settings and periodic decibel measurements with sound applications, can promote long-term hearing conservation. Otolaryngology OR noises can surpass normal safe thresholds. Failure to be aware of this may unwittingly expose providers to noise-related hearing loss. The duration, frequency of exposure, and volume levels of noise should be studied further. Mitigation strategies should be employed. Quality improvement measures, including attention to surgical instrument volume settings and periodic decibel measurements with sound applications, can promote long-term hearing conservation.