This study on landscapers' occupational exposures found significant overexposure to noise and respirable crystalline silica (RCS), especially during hardscaping tasks, despite existing engineering controls. Eighty workers at varied sites were monitored, showing noise levels frequently exceeding safety limits, while CO levels remained safe. Fuel-powered tools produced more noise and CO compared to battery-powered versions. Engineering controls could reduce RCS exposure, but additional protection might be necessary.

The research by Barbara M. Alexander and colleagues examines landscapers' exposure to noise, carbon monoxide, respirable dust, and respirable crystalline silica across 11 worksites. Most workers faced noise levels above safe limits, especially with fuel-powered tools versus battery-powered ones. Although CO overexposure was not observed, RCS overexposure was common in hardscaping tasks. The study emphasizes the need for engineering controls and protective measures to reduce these occupational risks.

The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health’s (NIOSH) recommended exposure limit for occupational noise is often cited as the upper limit for loudness in all situations-- but that's not actually the case. Worse, the limit may not even fit modern ears, which face a barrage of loud sound in and out of the workplace, starting at an early age. In this episode, we talk to Daniel Fink of Quiet Coalition about how NIOSH's recommended exposure limit for occupational noise impacts even those of us in quiet workplaces, and why the limit needs to be revised downwards.

This podcast episode discusses the health and environmental impacts of gas-powered lawn equipment, focusing on emissions from two-stroke engines and noise pollution. Hosts and guest experts, pediatricians Dr. Elliot Krane and Dr. David Axelrod from Stanford University, highlight how these small engines generate significant pollution, comparable to driving a Ford F150 truck over long distances. The episode explores health implications, particularly on children, and suggests electric or manual alternatives. It encourages community actions for cleaner air and advocates for policies to transition away from gas-powered tools.

This study compares noise from gas-powered leaf blowers (GLBs) and battery-powered leaf blowers (BLBs), revealing significant differences in sound levels and impact on community health. GLBs are found to be much louder, particularly in low-frequency noise, which can transmit over long distances and through home windows, causing greater disruption than BLBs. The study suggests that transitioning to BLBs can mitigate health risks posed by GLBs' noise and emissions, advocating for policy changes to prioritize public and worker health.

The study examines noise pollution from over 11 million gas-powered leaf blowers in the U.S., which often exceed WHO noise standards up to 800 feet. The noise, surpassing 100 decibels due to low-frequency sound, affects health and communities. These findings support noise restrictions and suggest that standard decibel measurements are more accurate than A-weighted ones.

Noise measurements of 496 lawn mowers were made at 25 feet and at the operator’s ear between 2004 and 2017. In total, more than 2,000 different measurements were made. Several trends in lawn mower noise were observed. 1) Newer electric lawn mowers are significantly quieter and perform better than the older ones. 2) Newer gas powered walk mowers may be a decibel quieter. 3) Ride-on mower noise levels are pretty much unchanged and dependent on the size of the engine. 4) Compared to EPA noise measurements of mowers from 1973, very little progress has been made quieting mowers.

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The study by Jo Anne G. Balanay and colleagues examined noise exposure among groundskeepers at three North Carolina universities. It found that many workers are exposed to noise levels above the safe limit of 85 dBA, especially when using equipment like riding mowers and leaf blowers. The study highlights the need for hearing conservation programs and noise reduction strategies, such as managing equipment use and adopting engineering controls.

The study by Richard Baldauf and colleagues examined exposure to air contaminants for operators of gasoline-powered lawn and garden equipment. Operators faced elevated levels of carbon monoxide (CO), PM2.5, and aldehydes, potentially exceeding health standards. The study highlights the risks associated with these tools and the influence of operator activity and environmental conditions on exposure levels, suggesting the need for increased awareness and regulation.

This study by the Kuopio Regional Institute of Occupational Health examined noise emissions from leaf blowers and other gardening equipment. Testing of nine leaf blowers revealed noise exposure levels between 93-102 dB(A), with the highest levels from 2-stroke engines. These engines emitted low-frequency tonal noise components, which penetrate walls and are perceived as particularly irritating. The study highlights the significant noise emissions from leaf blowers, contributing to public complaints and recognizing the need for improved noise control in such equipment.

The Grand Jury report outlines the health and environmental hazards of gas-powered leaf blowers in Orange County, citing toxic emissions, particulate pollution, and harmful noise levels. Exhaust from these blowers is likened to the pollution of 17 cars per hour. The report calls for local governments, school districts, and community colleges to stop using gas-powered blowers in favor of cleaner alternatives like rakes, brooms, or electric blowers. It highlights successful compliance in cities that have banned the devices, emphasizing the need to protect public health and improve quality of life.