2022 NHCA Annual Virtual Conference

Objectives: [1]To measure sound exposure levels of marching band and non-marching band members during a football game, [2] to compare these exposure levels to sound level dose limits set by National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), and [3] to evaluate the perceptions of marching band members about their hearing health risk from loud sound exposure and their use of hearing protection devices (HPDs). Design: Noise dosimetry measurements were completed on the band director and six marching band members during rehearsals and performances. Dosimetry measurements for two audience members were collected during the performances. Noise dose values were obtained using NIOSH criteria. 123 marching band members responded to a questionnaire analyzing perceptions of loud music exposure, preventive behavior, and the associated hearing health and noise-related risks. Results: Noise dose values surpassed the NIOSH recommended limits among all six marching band members during rehearsals and performances. The sound levels recorded during performances were higher than the rehearsals. Most marching band members reported low concern for hearing health-related risks from high sound exposures and minimal use of HPDs. Conclusion: High sound exposure and low concern regarding auditory risk among band members highlight the need for comprehensive hearing conservation programs for this population.