Which device is used to measure personal noise exposure over a shift?

• A. Dosimeter
• B. Sound level meter
• C. Audiometer
• D. Integrating sound analyzer

Answer: (A)

Measuring personal noise exposure over a shift is done with a dosimeter because it is designed to be worn by the worker and continually records the actual noise the person experiences as they move through different tasks and environments. It integrates sound energy over the entire work period, yielding a dose or time-weighted average that reflects true occupational exposure. This is essential for assessing compliance with exposure limits, since noise exposure can vary a lot from moment to moment.

A sound level meter, by contrast, is typically used for spot measurements or environmental assessments at a fixed location and provides short-term or instantaneous readings rather than the full-shift exposure. An audiometer is used to test a person’s hearing thresholds, not to quantify how much noise they were exposed to. An integrating sound analyzer is for analyzing noise in a space or around equipment, usually at stationary points, and doesn’t track an individual’s shift-long exposure.