Noisiest Workplaces: F1 Race Car
The cockpit of a Formula 1 race car is officially considered by Guinness World Records to be the noisiest workplace on earth. Even without the ear-shattering 140 dB whine of the engine revving at 20,000+ RPM for sustained periods of time, the wind noise alone in an open cockpit F1 car could guarantee a pounding headache after a single lap. Thankfully, today’s drivers are protected by the latest in hearing protection gear and exotic carbon fiber helmets.
Rule Changes Bring More Noise
It may sound crazy, but the latest rule changes for the 2016 season will actually make F1 cars louder. According to SkySports:
“For 2016, all cars must have a separate exhaust waste gate tailpipe through which all and only wastegate exhaust gases must pass. This measure has been undertaken to increase the noise of the cars and will not have any significant effect on power or emissions.”
Putting 140 dB in Perspective
To put this into perspective, 140 dB is roughly the same sound intensity produced by standing near a turbine engine on a modern jet aircraft. At that level, intense pain can set in within just a few minutes. Over the years we’ve spoken with several pilots and turbine engine technicians who admitted they were once willing to make quick inspections or fixes on running jet engines without hearing protection. All of them verified the same thing: hearing damage happens quickly — and it’s irreversible.
For more on this, see our post: Hearing Loss Fact or Fiction: Can One Loud Noise Cause Hearing Loss?
Protecting Your Hearing
Events like Formula 1 races are thrilling, but the sound levels can be dangerous for both drivers and spectators. If you’re planning to attend, make sure you bring proper custom earplugs to protect your hearing. And if you’ve ever experienced ringing in your ears after a loud event, visit our tinnitus hub for guidance and support.
Remember: permanent hearing loss is just that — permanent. Prevention is always better than treatment.
“Noisy environments aren’t limited to racetracks. Learn how advanced technology like Edge AI hearing aids make everyday listening effortless.”
Questions?
Do you have questions about how to protect your hearing at loud events like a Formula 1 race? Please feel free to call our staff during regular business hours at (204) 788-1083 or contact us by email.
