Why Are Fireworks So Noisy?

Fireworks are used as a focal point during a large celebration such as cultural or religious events and celebrating the New Year.

 

They are the large scale equivalent of a party popper! In the UK particularly fireworks are also sold mostly around the 5th November for Guy Fawkes night that originated from the gun powder plot of 1605. Guy Fawkes night also being called bonfire or fireworks night. It can be difficult to get away with not hearing or seeing fireworks around this time of year in some shape or form.

 

The loudness of fireworks is on par with hearing gun shots or being at a live rock concert. If you are to buy fireworks to set off in your garden on Guy Fawkes night, the fireworks are not allowed to exceed 120dB. However the same regulations do not apply to public displays that create bigger, more magnificent and powerful fireworks, these can produce over 150dB.

 

When you think that the recommended maximum noise exposure limit for adults is 140dB and for children this is 120 dB, which potential for hearing damage starting at 80dB this means care needs to be taken to protect your hearing and children's hearing while at a fireworks event. 

 

Have you ever thought about why fireworks are as noisy as they are?

 

The sound of the firework is produced via a number of chemical reactions. The burning of gunpowder releases hot gas that it expands to the point there is no room left in the firework case, the firework explodes producing a blast wave. Depending on the chemicals used, they will produce different colour firework displays and the loudness in bang.

fireworks display

The bang itself is not the only noisy part to the firework. The resonance of the gas can sometimes produce a very loud high pitched screeching sound like a whistle. This is due to it being released in spurts. It can be piercingly uncomfortable to hear. A whistle is commonly created using an oxidiser such as Potassium Perchlorate and Benzoate compounds.

 

A humming or whirring sound can be created by fireworks that spin and shred their outer coating as they go. Additionally some fireworks also produce a crackling noise.

 

An interesting element to how loud the fireworks will be is the weather conditions. High humidity in the air can help transmit sound effectively. Therefore with change of humidity means the same fireworks display could be noiser one evening than the following due to the weather and temperature outside. This is due to the extra moisture in the air, of which sound travels much faster and easier through liquid than it does air.

 

What Can You Do To Prevent Damaging Your Hearing During A Fireworks Display

 

Keep Your Distance

 

The basic safety element is distance. If you are further away from the fireworks then the noise will be less. At an organised event the distance for event goers is 25 metres from where the fireworks are set off. If it is a few fireworks from your garden the minimum distance should be at least 5 metres. Even given this I would stay a little further back, you may even find you get a better overall view.

 

Your Age

 

It is crucial to think of your children's hearing at fireworks events. WHO guidelines recommend that the maximum sound exposure to children is 120 dB in comparison to 140dB to adults because they are more likely to hear what you are listening to louder than you are perceiving it.

 

Quiet Fireworks

 

If you are putting on a display at your garden, you can look to choosing fireworks that provide more colour and less sounds.

 

Ear Protection

 

The use of ear protection whether disposable, reuseable or custom made will allow you to enjoy the visual firework display across the sky without the sound involved.

Quick Tips

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