Occupational noise is a major issue in many workplaces. It is a significant risk factor in industrial deafness and other hearing loss disorders. Measuring noise levels and workers' noise exposure is integral part of a workplace hearing conservation and noise control program. It helps to identify work locations where there are noise problems, employees who are exposed to noise levels and where additional noise measurements need to be made and controls implemented.
Noise surveys are conducted to determine the level of exposure to harmful noise through the use of machines and equipment.
The need for noise measurement and controls may have originated from previous audits conducted in the workplace, statutory compliance and redevelopment of noise management plans. Noise surveys are conducted to:
- identify items of equipment and operations which have the potential to cause the exposure standard to be exceeded;
- delineate all areas where the average sound level (LAeq,T) exceeds 85dB(A) or the peak noise level exceeds 140 dB(C);
- evaluate noise exposures (LAeq,8hr) so that personnel exposed above the exposure standard can be identified; and
- assess the adequacy of the noise reduction afforded by personal hearing protectors already in use and of alternative protectors if required.
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