Workplace noise is arguably the most prevalent hazard in the workplace. However, it can be easily managed to ensure harm does not result. Noise surveys are required at least every five years, or after changes in industrial equipment or work patterns. Chemsafety can provide a comprehensive noise survey, discuss eliminated, isolated or minimised options, and advise on suitable hearing protection options.

 What, When & Why

If you need to raise your voice to speak with someone one metre away, then noise levels are likely to be too high, that is approaching or exceeding 85dBA. Above this level, noise induced hearing loss (NIHL) may occur.

Assessing noise levels in your workplace are part of the requirements for hazard identificaton under the Health & Safety in Employment Act.  Chemsafety can ensure you meet your requirements under the Health & Safety in Employment Act, and ensure the well being of your staff.

A detailed noise assessment is required

• At least every five years
• Following changes likely to increase noise exposure, such as
  • Increase in hours worked
  • Equipment / plant alterations
  • Variation in work practices
• When requested by a Health & Safety Inspector, or
• When reasonably requested by an employee

2010 Proposed Changes to ACC may have further implications

Chemsafety's Noise Surveys

Using up-to-date monitoring equipment, standards and guidelines, Chemsafety provides you with the necessary information to meet your noise management obligations.

Our recently updated noise dose badges and sound level meter. The dose badges sit unobtrusively on the shoulder, with no cables to get tangled or damaged.

We begin with a site visit to assess plant layout, noise sources, and work patterns. Noise dosimetry spot checks are carried out at various locations to provide a site plan of average noise levels indicating the level of hearing protection required throughout the factory. It will also pin point staff requiring further personal noise dosimetry assessments.

Full workshift personal noise dosimetry determines the level of noise to which particular personnel are exposed throughout the various duties they undertake. As well as determining the average over the day, the graphical data will indicate areas in which noise levels may be elevated.

In plain language our report will tell you staff noise exposure levels, guide you through selecting a remedial option appropriate to your particular circumstances, and ensure that you are aware of any statutory obligations to your staff.

We are also available to present the findings and recommendations to your staff on site. This is often done inconjunction with background information on noise and hearing loss. Contact Chemsafety now to discuss your noise situation - This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it - 0800 366 370