Noise in operating theatres, is it safe?

Introduction: Noise-Induced Hearing Loss (NIHL) is a condition caused by repeated exposure to loud noise, with operating theatre personnel potentially at risk. The aims of this study were to establish the typical noise levels in orthopaedic theatres and to compare these to The Control of Noise at Work Regulations 2005.

Materials And Methods: We measured the average noise levels in 40 trauma and orthopaedic surgeries in a single centre.