On app ways - measuring noise with the app is not recommended
More and more people are using mobile apps in their everyday lives, not least for professional purposes. But these digital helpers are not suitable for every task, even if they initially appear to be. This is especially true for so-called noise apps. They are not suitable for proper noise measurements, explains the Institute for Occupational Safety and Health of the German Social Accident Insurance (IFA) on the occasion of the Day against Noise on April 25.
Whether it's a reference work, a tool or a measuring device: millions of apps make the Smartphone to a multifunctional helper. Spirit levels or business guides can be downloaded in minutes and replace specialist knowledge and technical equipment. These also include more than 100 apps for measuring ambient noise. However, anyone who needs to determine noise levels precisely should always consult experts.
Hearing-damaging noise starts at 85 dB(A)
„Noise damaging to hearing begins at a level of 85 dB(A) that persists for more than eight hours a day," says Dr. Florian Schelle, noise expert at the IFA. The so-called noise apps, however, are not suitable for determining whether loud noises - no matter where - are actually above or below this level. limit hazardous to health lie. The reason for this is simple: Cell phones filter certain frequencies in the noise spectrum so that speech in particular is well understood and ambient noise is largely suppressed. This filter function can also change with every cell phone update.
Schelle: "For an initial, very rough assessment in a private context, the app on the cell phone may be useful. But when it comes to, exactly about the level of noise pollution We strongly advise against the use of noise apps. If a reliable and therefore court-proof noise measurement is required in the private sector, it is advisable to go to a specialist office. The IFA's noise expert advises, "If in doubt, hire special engineering firms or look for publicly appointed experts. If there are problems with noise at the workplace, contact your employers' liability insurance association or accident insurance fund (editor's note: Suva)."
Text: German Social Accident Insurance DGU
Further information:
Metrological investigations in the project smartphone as sound level meter (EMPA) of the Federal Office for the Environment FOEN
Excuse me? The teaching package on noise and hearing damage (Suva)
Noise in the workplace. Checklist for hazard identification and action planning (Suva).
Noise at the workplace that is hazardous to hearing (Suva)
World Hearing Day Video & Info
