The subject of the long term effects of noise for performing arts professionals has always been sensitive and difficult to assess. At English National Opera, we have been very aware of this situation and in 2004 decided we needed arobust, reliable and unobtrusive system that would allow us to gain a greater understanding of the typical personal noise exposure levels received by members of our orchestra, chorus, stage performers, technicians and other staff. Given that the music and performance dynamics change from production to production, we needed to incorporate these differences into our noise control plan.
We invested in the Pulsar Instruments Plc Model 22 doseBadge system that consists of small, robust and lightweight dosimetry units that attach comfortably to the shoulder of the employee being monitored. After each session this information is then communicated to the reader unit where we can easily view the essential measurement information. We then have the option of downloading each group of measurements to a computer for further analysis and reporting. The time histories of the noise levels are very useful for determining when the main exposure levels occur and which members of staff are most affected.
This method of capturing data has provided us with valuable information enabling us to assess and then investigate ways of minimising the risks from noise exposure. When routine verification of the equipment is required we simply contact Pulsar instruments to arrange the prompt service and recalibration our doseBadge system.