Investigation of Ground and Maintenance Crew Noise Exposure for the Royal Canadian Air Force CH-147F Helicopter

Rotary aircraft maintenance personnel, similar to helicopter aircrew, are exposed to high noise levels while working in and around aircraft. The noise environment may include tonal rotor noise, high frequency engine, transmission and hydraulic systems noise as well as broadband noise. Prolonged exposure may lead to hearing loss if the designated hearing protection is inadequate or improperly fitted. A thorough interior and exterior noise exposure measurement campaign was conducted on the Royal Canadian Air Force’s CH-147F helicopter. A number of representative operational states for maintenance and tarmac conditions were investigated and referenced to the Canadian Aviation Occupational Health and Safety Regulations. The results were analyzed to determine the acoustic performance of ground maintenance crew hearing protection equipment.