Occupational Noise Exposure during Aircraft Engine Run-up Task in Aviation Maintenance

Abstract

Hearing loss risk is influenced by factors such as aging, trauma, infection, and prolonged noise exposure. Aviation maintenance personnel operate in high-noise environments, particularly during aircraft engine run-up procedures, where sound levels can reach up to 140 dBA. This study evaluates noise exposure during engine run-up tasks and compares results to the ACGIH Threshold Limit Value (TLV) for an 8-hour time-weighted average (TWA). Noise exposure was measured using two dosimeters during engine run-up tasks lasting approximately 10 minutes. Equivalent personal exposure (Leq) and peak noise levels were recorded and extrapolated to an 8-hour workday. Measured Leq values ranged from 64 to 127 dBA, exceeding recommended limits in several cases. Peak noise levels averaged 144 dBA, exceeding the 140 dBA threshold. Single hearing protection was insufficient to reduce exposure to safe levels. Aviation maintenance personnel are at significant risk of hearing loss during engine run-up operations. Observed noise levels exceeded ACGIH limits, particularly due to extreme peak exposures. Double hearing protection is necessary in these conditions, along with implementation of additional engineering controls to reduce noise at the source.

Keywords: Noise Exposure, Aircraft Engine Run-up, Aviation Maintenance

DOI: 10.54941/ahfe1007930