IRSST - Institut de recherche Robert-Sauvé en santé et en sécurité du travail

Acoustic performance evaluation of back-up alarms in open work environments to achieve optimal use of such alarms

Abstract

Not only are the back-up alarms with which heavy vehicles are generally equipped still the cause of accidents, but other problems are associated with their use: excessive noise level, poor positioning, confusing spatial perception when several alarms operate simultaneously, etc.

The researchers thus looked at sound propagation, audibility and auditory localization with the two main types of back-up alarms on the market (tonal and broadband sound). Laboratory and field tests indicated how to optimize the use of back-up alarms while maintaining an acceptable level of safety for workers and allowed documentation of problems identified by members of a monitoring committee and the research team.

Additional Information

Type: Project
Number: 2012-0022
Status: Completed
Year of completion: 2017
Team:
  • Hugues Nélisse (IRSST)
  • Chantal Laroche (Université d'Ottawa)
  • Christian Giguère (Université d'Ottawa)
  • Véronique Vaillancourt (Université d'Ottawa)
  • Jérôme Boutin (IRSST)