Impulse noise in industry

Impulsive noises are very dangerous for hearing. Only one single noise exposure to an unprotected ear, is enough to destroy the inner ear cells.

What is impulsive noise?

Impulse noise is characterized as a short pulse (<1sec) with very fast rise time and which level is at least 20 dB above the continue noise level. The total duration is normally shorter than 0,2 sec. A rifle shot is in between 0,004 to 0,015 second.

Examples on impulsive noise sources:

• Gun/rifle shot
• Hitting some hard material with a
• hammer or other tool
• Outlet of compressed air
• Explosives (air bags)
• Nailing machines
• Punching machines
• Some metal cutting machines
• Hitting screw/nut machines