Noise exposure for personal music player users in metros

Research on acoustics conditions inside transport systems have demonstrated that the noise in metros trains can reach levels comparable with those of industrial activities. These sound levels can affect the acoustic comfort, reducing significantly the speech communication between passengers and influencing behaviour and habits during the performance of secondary activities. On the other hand, the proliferation of the personal music players (PMPs) and the wide spread daily use of these devices by the new generations can be the reason for hearing loss when the music listening takes place in noisy environments. In this study the results of a survey on the listening habits of PMPs users interviewed on board of a metro and the measurements of the maximum output levels of the most commonly used PMPs are presented. The results of a laboratory test, which aim was to analyse the listening levels of a group of subjects during a simulation of the PMPs listening in the different metros’ acoustic environment, are also presented. The results of the tests were then processed to evaluate the noise exposure levels and the hearing loss risks.