Measurement of sound level in sport natural areas using the maintaining athletes' health approach

Abstract

Background. Numerous studies have been shown that exposure to recreational intense sounds increases the damages of the hearing system. Objectives. This research aims to measure the sound level in Darakeh mountainous region and the climbing routes. Methods. The stationary method was used to record the measurement points. The sound level on the routes was measured in the distance of one meter, in A level and as an equivalent level by a portable device and Decibel X software (Version 2019) and compared with the standard sound (OSHA-90 dBA). Sound pressure level parameters (SPL), average sound level (LP) ), equivalent continuous sound level (Leq) and personal daily dose LAEp, d was also calculated. Results. The research findings indicate that the lowest and highest average sound level belongs to the station 9 (roadside) with 68.1 dB and station 6 (Kolbeh Koohsar restaurant) with 81.73 dB, respectively. The results show the relatively high distance of sound level in most stations (except station 2) in comparison with the international standards. The average sound level in climbing routes, the equivalent level, and the personal daily dosage were 77.3, 87.69, and 86.44 dB, respectively. Conclusion. Considering conditions of the region, the average time of athlete presence is one hour longer than the allowed time and they are exposed to high noise pollution which can be lead to physiological complications, aggression and temporary changes in the hearing threshold.