Citation

Mikulec AA, Lukens SB, Jackson LE, Deyoung MN. J. Laryngol. Otol. 2011; 125(2): 121-125.

Affiliation

Department of Otolaryngology, St Louis University School of Medicine, Missouri, USA.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2011, JLO Ltd., Publisher Cambridge University Press)

DOI

10.1017/S0022215110002355

PMID

21106136

Abstract

Objective:To quantify the noise exposure received while driving a convertible automobile with the top open, compared with the top closed.Methods:Five different convertible automobiles were driven, with the top both closed and open, and noise levels measured. The cars were tested at speeds of 88.5, 104.6 and 120.7 km/h.Results:When driving with the convertible top open, the mean noise exposure ranged from 85.3 dB at 88.5 km/h to 89.9 dB at 120.7 km/h. At the tested speeds, noise exposure increased by an average of 12.4-14.6 dB after opening the convertible top.Conclusion:Driving convertible automobiles at speeds exceeding 88.5 km/h, with the top open, may result in noise exposure levels exceeding recommended limits, especially when driving with the convertible top open for prolonged periods.

Language: en