Determination of noise level and acoustic analysis of toys for children in Sri Lanka market

Abstract

This study was conducted to determine the existing noise levels and perform acoustic analysis on different toys in the Sri Lankan market. The study was carried out using international references, and the noise level descriptors LpAeq, LpCpeak, and LpAFmax were recorded during measurement. A total of 205 toys were selected, and 1986 measurements were taken for analysis. The study reveals that 59 (28.8%) of the 205 toys in different categories had noise levels that exceeded two parameters, and 35 (17.1%) exceeded one parameter, considering the LpAeq, LpCpeak, and LpAFmax parameter values as described in BS EN 71-1:2011+A3:2014 Safety of toys. Measurements indicate that cap firing, wind, and squeeze toys have higher noise levels than international standards (reference values for cap firing: 125 dB, squeeze and cap firing: 110 dB). The study clearly indicates that when measuring noise levels in the frequency range compared to our normal reference hearing range (150 Hz to 5 kHz), it may affect the hearing levels. The study demonstrates the necessity for awareness, warning signs, and enforcing toy acoustic standards and regulations to improve the situation in Sri Lanka.