Noise Exposure & Noise Risk Assessment (NRA)

Noise exposure refers to the level of sound energy a person is subjected to over a specific period of time. This exposure is measured in decibels (dB) and is typically evaluated using instruments such as sound level meters. Both the intensity and duration of exposure are critical in determining the potential health effects on individuals in the workplace.

A sound level meter is commonly used to monitor ambient noise levels in various areas of a workplace. For more detailed and personal exposure data, a dosimeter is often utilized, particularly during a Noise Risk Assessment (NRA). This assessment is essential in identifying areas within the workplace that pose excessive noise risks, enabling proactive measures to protect workers' hearing.

Sound Level Meter (SLM) is used to take exposure data as part of the Noise Risk Assessment (NRA) to identify excessive noise levels in the workplace.

According to the Occupational Safety and Health (Noise Exposure) Regulations 2019, employers are responsible for assessing and controlling excessive noise levels in the workplace to prevent hearing damage and ensure the safety of their employees. A Noise Risk Assessment (NRA) plays a crucial role in complying with these legal requirements.

The key noise exposure limits typically evaluated during an NRA include:

• Daily noise exposure level: 85 dB(A)

• Maximum sound pressure level (any time): 115 dB(A)

• Peak sound pressure level: 140 dB(C)

When noise exposure exceeds these limits, it can lead to several adverse effects, including:

• Hearing loss or impairment

• Increased work-related stress

• Decreased worker productivity

• Difficulty in communication and maintaining focus

• Inability to hear alarms or warning signals

• Higher risk of workplace accidents and injuries

To reduce the risk of hearing damage, employers can implement several preventive measures, such as:

• Reducing exposure duration through job rotation

• Increasing the distance between workers and noise sources

• Scheduling tasks to minimize the number of workers in noisy areas

• Limiting the number of employees exposed at any one time

• Providing regular rest breaks in quiet zones

• Supplying suitable personal hearing protection

• Implementing engineering controls to isolate noise sources

Using a dosimeter, personal noise monitoring can be conducted effectively to gather accurate exposure data for individual employees. This is a key step in any Noise Risk Assessment (NRA) process.

In summary, identifying and controlling sources of excessive noise in the workplace is vital in preventing long-term hearing problems and maintaining a safe, productive work environment. A comprehensive Noise Risk Assessment (NRA) ensures that employees are not exposed to hazardous noise levels during their duties.

We are committed to delivering top-quality Noise Risk Assessment (NRA) services tailored to your workplace needs. For more information or to schedule an assessment, contact us at 019 230 4900 or email nuunconsultant@gamil.com. We are ready to assist you in protecting your workforce and ensuring regulatory compliance.