Noise Testing
Noise is a variation of pressure in the ear that produces a sensory effect. While noise may be a pleasurable sensation however excessive workplace noise exposure may lead to Noise Induced Hearing Loss (NIHL).
The National Work Health and Safety Regulations require workplace noise exposure levels to be less than LAeq, 8hr of 85 dB(A) and LC,peak of 140 dB(C). These workplace noise levels require to be determined in accordance with AS/NZS 1269.1:2005 Occupational noise management – Measurements and assessment of noise immission and exposure.
To determine if workplace noise levels exceed exposure limits a noise consultant will first undertake a preliminary noise assessment. The aim of the preliminary noise assessment is to document sources of noise in the workplace and determine the nominal noise levels.
If noise levels in the workplace may be greater than 80 dB(A) then a detailed noise assessment is required. A detailed noise exposure requires to be undertaken by a qualified noise consultant who has degree in Occupational Hygiene or Acoustic Engineering using equipment calibrated by a NATA accredited facility. The detailed workplace noise assessment assessed the likely noise exposure over a 8 hour equivalent working day. There are two methods to calculate the daily workplace noise exposure and includes:
- Noise contour mapping; or
- Individual assessment of noise exposure.
Noise contour surveys measure the noise levels of the area and document the noise levels produced by machinery which can then be used to determine the overall workplace noise exposure.
The individual noise assessment may use two methods. One method is by a task analysis, identifying all the tasks that contribute to the overall workplace noise exposure, measuring the noise level and calculating the overall cumulative noise exposure expressed in Pa2. Alternately noise monitoring using personal dosimetery includes placing noise monitors on the worker which logs the total workplace noise exposure during the day.
If workers are exposed to excessive noise levels then control measures are required to reduce the total workplace noise exposure to be less than LAeq, 8hr of 85 dB(A) and LC,peak of 140 dB(C). Controls may include controlling noise levels at the source, personal hearing protectors, noise refuges and barriers and administrative controls.
Health monitoring is also required at a maximum of two yearly intervals by conducting hearing testing and assessments through audiometric testing.
For further information on workplace noise levels, noise testing and assessments to reduce workplace noise exposure, please contact one of our noise consultants on 02 9624 2600 or visit our dedicated website http://www.noisetesting.info/noise-measurement/
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