The Effects of Noise on Hearing. Part 1. Weapon Noise

The effect of impulsive (gunfire-type) noise on exposed personnel has been assessed by measurement of temporary hearing threshold shifts (TTS), for a variety of weapon systems. Physical characteristics of the noise sources used are given, together with results of a detailed study on TTS arising from the noise of the self-loading rifle (SLR). The variation in sensitivity of exposed personnel to different impulsive noise sources, or to the same source (SLR) on different occasions, is described. It is shown that adequate ear protection against the noise of weapons currently in service can, in the majority of cases, be provided by the 'Sonex' ear plug; the exceptions, for which more effective ear protection is required, are identified. Recommendations are made for a hearing conservation programme for use with existing or developing weapon systems. Requirements for further research are discussed.