Occupational Noise Exposure in gyms of county of Coimbra (Poster)

Occupational noise is one of the most important risk factors for workers and is also the most common physical agent found in the workplace. Thus, it’s imperative to evaluate the noise exposure of professionals working in gyms and try to assess its impact on the health and well-being of workers. The test was composed of 4 gyms, 22 workers, with noise measurements made during all programs available and in public spaces outside the class period. The analytical parameters measured were the equivalent continuous sound level (LAT) and the peak sound pressure level (LCpk) for subsequent determination of exposure of the workers to noise (LEX,8h). Questionnaires were applied to all professionals, about personal information, professional and health condition data. The professionals fulfilled a weekly schedule with all activities performed by them in the gyms under study and the respective exposure times. It was concluded that more than 50% of the individuals were exposed to noise levels which are harmful to their health, reaching in some cases up to 84,2 dB(A). Most of them were men, representing the group with most activities outside the gyms. According to professionals, none had hearing problems, however some symptoms of discomfort associated with noise exposure were identified: stress, irritability, general fatigue and some other symptoms.