Performance evaluation of sound screening Method for estimating sound Risk in small Workshops of Hamadan city

Introduction: noise pollution has a negative effect on physiological parameters, efficiency and auditory system. The aim of this study was to evaluate the performance of a sound screening method for estimating sound risk in small workshops of Hamadan city. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted in 22 plants with more than 20 workers. Noise screening was done using a screening form. Next, noise level was measured at all the plants by SL 4001 sound level meter and regular grid method. Data were analyzed using Pearson’s test and linear regression by SPSS version 16 software. Results: The mean (SD) scores of sound pressure level and screening form were 80.12 dB (7.277) and 60.50 (8.964) in the 22 understudy plants, respectively. The average measured workshop area and volume were 1448 and 10300, respectively. Pearson’s test revealed a significant relationship between the results of the two methods, (P > 0.046). Also the percentage of workers at risk (greater than 85 dB) was 32.29 and the percentage of workers within safe limit (less than 85 dB) was 63.3. While the largest percentage of workers in the caution zone (82 dB) was 67.04. conclusions: A correlation was shown between the results of the two methods. The use of this method to identify workshops with the possibility of noise pollution is effective