European Union voting to keep the noise down
December 20 2009
Lobby action is being taken by a group of EU officials to reduce the volume that mp3 players can be played at. Research has shown that when sound reaches over 78dB (78 decibels) the human ear can receive damage if exposed to noise at this volume for anything over a few minutes.
The current batch of mp3 players that are available in the UK and Europe can produce volume up to, and over 115dB. The officials are lobbying to introduce a maximum volume setting of 85dB, which is to apply to all brands including iPods. The health and safety legislation report that current existing for places of work carries the advice that people should not be exposed to 115dB for 30 seconds, or longer.
Apple had already dropped their maximum volume to 100dB, but if the new legislation is passed on personal devices throughout Europe, they will have to re-adjust it down a further 15dB for consumers.
An audiology study confirmed that nerve damage to the inner ear is permanent and cannot be treated. SO once damaged, the patient cannot regain the hearing back to what it previously was.