Audiological Evaluation in Traffic Police of Kurnool City- 2012-2013

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Exposure to noise beyond prescribed limits of WHO in terms of intensity and duration results in temporary and in a few permanent loss of hearing acuity. The effect of traffic noise in Police personnel of Kurnool city was assessed by questionnaire. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Seventy traffic police personnel posted in various traffic junctions of Kurnool City were asked to fill a questionnaire related to their hearing acuity. Ambient noise Levels at important traffic junctions were measured using portable precision digital sound level meter (Lutron -Model SL4010). RESULTS: Irritation and problem in hearing in the crowd was the main complaints seen in 27.14% of the study subjects. RTC bus stand recorded the highest value of 109.6dB. CONCLUSION: Legal framework should be imposed to maintain the noise levels in traffic within acceptable levels. Health education and personal protection devices should be provided to the traffic police and their correct usage should be explained.