Noise levels in the health club setting

Abstract

Nonoccupational noise exposure increasingly has become an issue in society as a possible cause of noise-induced hearing loss. Leisure activities such as rock concerts, snowmobiling and auto racing have been shown to produce dangerous levels of noise exposure. Noise-induced hearing loss also has become problematic in the health club setting. A study of the noise levels measured during 125 aerobics classes revealed that club noise levels often exceeded those recommended for occupational noise exposure. Average noise levels during aerobics classes ranged from 78 to 106 dB(A), with 79% of readings reaching 90 dB(A) or more for 60 minutes of class time. Instructors reported that, after class, they received subjective complaints of fluctuating hearing loss and tinnitus from class members 50% of the time. Education of participants and instructors should be encouraged, to increase their awareness that loud noise levels can cause permanent hearing loss and to prevent the occurrence of such loss.