Many of the human body’s responses to cold mirror those initiated by exposure to heat.  Others are unique physiological mechanisms engaged to pursue diametrically-opposed objectives.  The risks associated with cold stress are very different from those of heat stress, requiring unique forms of strain for proper and effective management.
     This installment parallels Part 2 of the “Thermal Work Environments” series, providing an overview of thermoregulatory functions activated by cold stress.  The heat balance equation is also revisited, discussing each term in the context of cold environments.  These two installments are “companion pieces;” each can stand alone, but are most helpful when reviewed in conjunction.

     The measurement of sound pressure levels throughout a workplace is a fundamental component of noise-control and hearing-conservation initiatives.  It is the basis for exposure assessment and regulatory guidance.  Sound measurement and audiometry are opposite sides of the same coin.
     This installment of the “Occupational Soundscapes” series introduces basic concepts of sound level measurement and exposure assessment.  Equipment used, frequencies analyzed, calculation of a “dose,” and more are presented.  Like the presentation of audiometry (Part 5), its aim is to provide a level of understanding, within the constraints of this format, that engenders trust in an organization’s noise-related practices.