Yes, car racing noise can indeed damage your hearing. The noise levels at events like NASCAR, F1, and MotoGP races often exceed 130 decibels, posing a significant risk to hearing health.
According to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), prolonged exposure to noise levels above 85 decibels (dBA) can damage hearing. The Control of Noise at Work Regulations 2005 set an exposure limit value of 87 dB for an 8-hour working day. At most race tracks, noise levels commonly exceed these limits, with levels often reaching and surpassing 130 dB, particularly in the pit area. This is well above the safe threshold and can cause immediate and permanent hearing damage.
Whether it’s the V6 combustion engine of Formula 1 or the thunderous V8s in NASCAR races the primary source of car racing noise is the powerful engines of the race cars. Unlike regular vehicles, racing engines are designed without silencers to maximise airflow and fuel combustion efficiency. This design choice allows for greater engine performance but results in significantly higher noise levels. The exhaust systems, featuring components like headers, aggressive camshaft profiles, and higher compression ratios, contribute to the distinctive loudness of race cars.
To mitigate the risk of hearing damage at the race track, it is essential to take the following precautions:
Car racing noise is measured using specialised sound level meters and noise monitoring systems. Two key types of measurements are:
This is typically conducted on individual vehicles before they enter the circuit to screen out excessively noisy ones. The SV 971A sound level meter is ideal for this type of measurement. Measurements are taken at a 45-degree angle to the exhaust at a distance of 50 centimetres, with the engine running at 75% of its maximum power. The highest value from three consecutive measurements is compared to established noise limits. Detailed information regarding this type of measurement is contained in BS ISO 5130 – Measurements of sound pressure level emitted by stationary road vehicles, as measurements can vary depending on the vehicle category, exhaust type, and positioning. Additionally, these regulations can differ by region around the world.
Motorsport noise monitoring involves the installation of permanent or portable noise monitoring systems at various locations around the race track, on the pit lane, and in the surrounding community to measure noise levels and exposure under race conditions. SVANTEK provides several types of noise monitoring stations, such as the SV 307A, which includes time weighting, time averaging, and real-time communication via the dedicated service Svan NET. This service allows for station management, online result sharing, and the use of Live Audio. Additionally, the SV 200A includes noise directivity detection. These types of stations operate on the tracks of the fastest race cars and are also used on test tracks by European car manufacturers.
Car racing noise, with levels often exceeding 130 dB, can cause immediate and permanent hearing damage. It is crucial to take preventive measures such as wearing appropriate ear protection, avoiding close proximity to the track, and utilising noise monitoring systems to ensure a safer environment for spectators and employees. Monitoring and managing noise levels effectively can help balance the thrilling experience of motor racing with the need to protect hearing health.
