High risk of hearing damage for gym teachers

For many years, gym teachers have complained about the inadequate acoustics in gymnasiums. Recent research by Fontys Hogescholen has confirmed that the noise level in many gymnasiums is actually too high during gym classes. Often, the noise level even rises above the legally established safe limit of 80 dB.

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Teaching in a “reverb box”

Recently, an extensive article about this was published on Pointer. article about acoustics in gymnasiums. Pointer is KRO-NCRV's platform for investigative journalism on TV, radio and online. The article describes that gym teachers often come home tired, headache and overstimulated after a day of teaching in a “reverb box”. This puts them at high risk of hearing damage because the noise in the gym is often far too loud. This is evident, among other things, from a research by Fontys Hogescholen.

Good acoustics are also part of a healthy work environment

In addition to being a teaching tool, the sports facility, the gym, is also a workplace. A workplace must be healthy and safe. Employers have a duty of care in this regard from the Arbo perspective. Good acoustics are also part of a healthy work environment. However, acoustics are among the top 3 points that subject teachers find problematic in their workplace. There are standards for good acoustics in the sports facility or gym for physical education. Acoustic measurements can be used to check whether the acoustic standards are also in order within the building. The municipality has a duty of care to facilitate adequate educational housing. The school also has a duty of care from the Working Conditions. The KVLO's advice to schools is to ensure that it is a safe, healthy and responsible workplace when they are allocated accommodation for physical education. “Under the duty of care, demand a report that safety and health aspects are in order and that your employee ends up in a well-equipped workplace”. We read this on the website of The Royal Society for Physical Education (FLEA). This is the interest group for all professionals who teach children to move properly in and around the school.

Acoustics not up to par in your gym?

Do you experience that the acoustics are not up to par? Switch the Akoesta specialists in! If desired, an acoustic measurement can be done. A measurement supports your feelings and gives you what adjustments are needed to get the acoustics in order. Akoesta has a number of effective acoustic solutions, especially for gymnasiums. Check out the case from the Ir. Lely Lyceum.

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Do you have questions about improving the acoustics in gymnasiums? Then take contact meet the specialists at Akoesta.