asked the Minister for Health if he is satisfied that noise caused by amplification in modern places of entertainment is not injurious to health; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Amplification Noise.
875.
It has long been accepted that noise of excessive level and duration can cause damage to hearing.
Apart from the physical damage which may be attributed to it, such noise is distressing and is not conducive to good health in general. Persons at greatest risk are the operators of the amplification equipment and also people employed in such establishments who, by the nature of the work, are exposed above an ordinary level. This may only become evident when permanent damage has already been done.
High volume sound is a popular feature at modern entertainment. The most effective way of dealing with it would seem to be through the encouragement of a wider public appreciation of the dangers involved together with, if feasible, the introduction of controls for the protection of the workers involved. I will be pursuing this matter in consultation with the Health Education Bureau and the Minister for Labour.