Vocal load as measured by the voice accumulator.

Voice disorders related to occupation and work environment are often observed in ENT consultations. Advising these patients requires not only the investigation of their vocal capacities but also knowledge about their vocal load. The patient will name extreme demands as the reason for vocal problems whereas the employer will want to know if the patient is capable of doing the work required of him. For an objective measurement of vocal load, a voice accumulator has been developed. This portable instrument records total speaking time and sound level over a period of several hours. The data can be transferred to a personal computer which analyses voiced time (s) between 60 and 112 dB(A)s. Thus, more precise and objective documentation of vocal demands in some professions can finally be obtained. With these results, it is possible to monitor vocal ability or disability during vocal rehabilitation.