NOISE MONITORING

Workplace noise exposure limits have come down by 5dB(A) in 2006. Could your employees be working in sound levels above 80 dB(A)? If so, you need a noise risk assessment.

Elements of a noise assessment

• Observation of work tasks by an experienced professional hygienist
• Measurement of daily worker exposure to noise by personal dosemeters
• Monitoring of shorter periods of noise exposure on specific tasks by personal dosimeters
• Spot noise levels at critical locations and workstations
• Octave band measurements may be needed to ensure correct frequency matching of ear protection

An occupational noise exposure survey will answer these questions

• Who is at risk?
• Where should I concentrate my noise reduction efforts?
• Who must be provided with ear protection and who must wear it?
• What type of ear protection is suitable?
• What areas should be made ear protection zones?
• What engineering noise reduction measures would be most effective?
• How can I organise the job to minimise the noise?