Sound levels in our daily public places
Reviewed by Nathan Barlow

Hearing conservation and noise safety are significant public health issues globally. Drinkwater’s article describes a wide variety of initiatives which contribute to healthier sound levels in public spaces and daily environments. One of particular interest is hearing assistive technology (HAT) on smartphones which utilises WiFi and Bluetooth audio signals to hearing aids and gives the listener control over their choice of volume. The author describes US and EU initiatives, including sensory quiet times in public spaces such as supermarkets, where no background music is played, which can reduce the stigma of asking for assistance in noise whilst also being more broadly accommodating. A good summary of a variety of available options which can influence the soundscape in our daily lives.

Sound Options for Public Places.
Drinkwater, J.
HEAR J
2024;77(9):1–2.