Headsets are increasingly used in the working environment. In addition to being frequently used by call-centre staff, they are also becoming more popular with remote workers and teleconference participants. The aim of this work was to describe and evaluate the acoustic signal parameters reproduced by headsets and examine the factors affecting the values of these parameters. The tests were carried out in laboratory conditions using a manikin (head and torso simulator) designed for acoustic research. A total of 12 headset models were tested during the research. The results show that the A-weighted sound pressure level of the test signal reproduced by four (100% gain) and two (75% gain) headsets exceeded 85 dB. The highest equivalent A-weighted sound pressure level was 92.5 dB, which means that the headset should not be used for more than approx. 1 h and 25 min; otherwise, the criterion value will be exceeded. The analysis of the acoustic signal reproduced by the headsets confirmed that the A-weighted sound pressure level affected the gain level in the test signal reproduction path. This value also depended on the type of connector used, the computer from which the test signal was reproduced and the type of sound card used.
Keywords: headsets; noise; occupational exposure; sound; sound pressure level.