OSHA Noise Standards and FIRST Events

[OScubed]

About setting standards for sound levels at events. According to data gathered at nationals most of the field suffered sound levels that were so loud that they violated OSHA standards AVERAGE of over 90dba for hours at a time for both days of the event. Not only are these sound levels dangerous for hearing, and uncomfortable except with ear protection, but frankly they drive spectators away, make it difficult for team cheers to be heard, and in general detract from the event. OSHA standards state that sound pressure of more than 90dba should not be sustained without hearing protection for more than a couple hours. I do not think that the solution to this issue is "wear earplugs". The solution is "set standards, and a measurement and enforcement system that enforces those standards".

My feeling is that FIRST - as the sponsoring organization should be in charge of setting event standards for volume levels, which the regionals and the company in charge of putting on the event for the nationals would be required to comply with. They should have the proper equipment on hand, and a formal system for addressing excessive noise complaints at each regional. I've heard form a number of people that FIRST officials were the ones to tell the event sound people to "pump up the volume".

So my question is - what is the best method for addressing this within the FIRST organization itself, and any suggestions for proposing standards that make sense. I'd appreciate advice on who to contact (preferably someone on the FIRST safety staff as this is truly a safety issue).