Method of Noise Risk Assessment (NRA)

Method of Noise Risk Assessment (NRA)

Noise Risk Assessment (NRA) is a structured and essential process conducted at workplaces to ensure that employees are not exposed to excessive noise levels that can negatively impact their hearing health. A certified Noise Risk Assessor (NRA) is responsible for carrying out the Noise Risk Assessment (NRA) in accordance with legal and safety standards.

The Noise Risk Assessor is conducting a Noise Risk Assessment (NRA) at the workplace to identify the level of noise exposure.

Area Monitoring in Noise Risk Assessment (NRA)

Area monitoring is a key component of the Noise Risk Assessment (NRA). It involves identifying noise sources and measuring sound levels across different areas using a Sound Level Meter (SLM). This method helps pinpoint machines or operations that generate high noise levels, enabling prioritization for noise control actions within the Noise Risk Assessment (NRA) process.

Noise Mapping in Noise Risk Assessment (NRA)

During the Noise Risk Assessment (NRA), noise mapping is conducted to visually represent noise exposure levels in the workplace layout. Based on measurements from area monitoring, average sound pressure levels are calculated and displayed on a colour-coded map. This map is a crucial output of the Noise Risk Assessment (NRA) to assist in decision-making for noise control planning.

Personal Monitoring in Noise Risk Assessment (NRA)

Personal monitoring is another vital part of the Noise Risk Assessment (NRA). It involves attaching dosimeters to workers to record their personal noise exposure throughout the work shift. This aspect of the Noise Risk Assessment (NRA) focuses on employees grouped into Similar Exposure Groups (SEG) based on job roles, tasks, and locations. The most exposed individuals from each SEG are selected for personal monitoring during the Noise Risk Assessment (NRA).

During this phase of the Noise Risk Assessment (NRA), the assessor will:

1.     Interview workers and supervisors

2.     Perform spot checks using a sound level meter

3.     Review dosimeter time-logs to validate exposure data

The data collected during personal monitoring in the Noise Risk Assessment (NRA) will then be used to calculate daily noise exposure levels.

Noise Risk Evaluation in Noise Risk Assessment (NRA)

After collecting noise measurement data, a noise risk evaluation must be performed as part of the Noise Risk Assessment (NRA). This step involves comparing personal noise exposure results with the Noise Exposure Limits (NEL) outlined in the Occupational Safety and Health (Noise Exposure) Regulations 2019. The outcome of this evaluation guides necessary actions and improvements recommended through the Noise Risk Assessment (NRA).

Equipment Used in Noise Risk Assessment (NRA)

The following tools are commonly used during the Noise Risk Assessment (NRA):

1.    Sound Level Meter (SLM): For conducting area monitoring

2.    Dosimeter: For measuring personal noise exposure

3.    Sound Level Calibrator: To ensure the equipment used in the Noise Risk Assessment (NRA) is accurately calibrated before and after use

Need a Noise Risk Assessment (NRA) at Your Workplace?

If your workplace needs a Noise Risk Assessment (NRA), our qualified team is ready to help. We offer complete Noise Risk Assessment (NRA) services tailored to your operations, focusing on identifying noise risks, evaluating exposure, and recommending effective controls.

Let us assist you in conducting a professional Noise Risk Assessment (NRA) to protect your workers’ hearing and ensure full compliance with regulatory requirements. Contact us at 019 230 4900 or email us at nuunconsultant@gmail.com. We are happy to assist you.