Airborne and Contact
Ultrasonic Safety

current working standards

M.L Lenhardt, Program in Biomedical Engineering

Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond 23298-0168

airborne ULTRASOUND
8 hour TWA
"85 dB A"
U weight
  • 10 kHz
88 dB
84 dB
  • 12.5 kHz
89 dB
88 dB
  • 16 kHz
92 dB
91 dB
  • 20 kHz
94 dB
110 dB
  • 25 kHz
123 dB
  • 31.5 kHz
135 dB
  • 40 kHz
147 dB
  • 50 kHz
  • 63 kHz

ultrasonic
  • Threshold level yet to be determined, 145 dB is the current TLV.
  • Effects may be induced in some Ss @ 125 dB after some hours.
  • Young normal hearing Ss more at risk?
  • Ear Plugs should provide protection1
Subjective effects:
  • fullness in the ear
  • headaches
  • tinnitus
  • dizziness
  • nausea
130 dB
How you can help
If you have experience with ultrasound and noted a possible bioeffect, please let me know
Martin Lenhardt, Ph.D., Au.D.

Box 980168 MCV, Richmond VA. 23219-0168

804.828.9687 fax 828.4454

lenhardt@hsc.vcu.edu

Page Content and Design : Dr Martin L. Lenhardt
WebMaster: Alan G. Madsen
Last update: Sunday, February 3, 2002