Noise - FAQs

You may have a noise problem in your department if any of the following apply: 

• Noise is intrusive e.g., as noisy as a busy road or a vacuum cleaner or even worse than intrusive, for most of the working day.

• Individuals have to raise their voices to carry out a normal conversation when about 2m apart for at least part of the day.

• Noisy powered tools or machinery are used for more than half an hour each day.

• There are woodworking or machining workshops in your department

• There are noises due to impacts (such as hammering or pneumatic impact tools etc), explosive sources such as cartridge-operated tools or detonators.

A noise survey measures noise levels across an area to find the loud spots. It helps us identify:

• Areas where people might be exposed to harmful noise levels, indicating personal dosimetry might be needed.

• Machines and equipment that generate harmful noise.

• People who could be exposed to unacceptable noise levels.

• Options for controlling noise to reduce exposure.

• Variations in noise levels during different operating conditions.

• Impact on noise levels from changes in operations.

Noise surveys are typically conducted in areas where noise exposure is likely hazardous. Essentially, noise level refers to the level of sound. During a noise survey, noise levels are measured at selected equipment or locations using a sound level meter.
Using a floorplan, it is possible to create a noise map by drawing lines between points with equal sound levels and also show where people and noisy machines or equipment are located.

Preparing for a noise survey and providing the right information to the Environmental Monitoring Technician is crucial for accurate and effective results. Here’s a friendly guide to help you get ready:

Preparing for survey

1. Identify noise sources: List all potential sources of noise in the area. This includes machinery, equipment, operations, and environmental noise. Where possible, gather information on the make, model and asset number of any equipment.
2. Schedule the survey: Choose a time when the area is operating under normal conditions. This ensures that the survey captures typical noise levels.
3. Inform staff: Let them know about the upcoming survey. Explain its purpose and how it will be conducted to ensure their cooperation.
4. Ensure access: Make sure the Technician has access to all areas that need to be monitored. This might include different rooms, floors, or specific workstations.

Information for the Environmental Monitoring Technician on the day

1. Layout: Provide a map or layout of the area, highlighting areas where noise is a concern.
2. Operational details: Share information about the operations and processes that take place in the noisy areas. This helps the Technician understand the context of the noise as noise levels can vary depending on the time of day and the activities being performed
3. Previous surveys: If you have any previous noise survey reports, share them with the Technician. This can provide valuable baseline data.
4. Concerns: It is always helpful to mention any specific concerns or complaints that have been raised about noise. This helps the Technician focus on areas that might need more attention.
5. Safety first: Ensure the Technician is aware of any safety protocols or personal protective equipment (PPE) requirements for the area.

By preparing thoroughly and providing detailed information, you can help ensure that the noise survey is accurate and effective. If you have any more questions or need further assistance, feel free to ask!

There is no definite answer to this. Hearing protection needs be comfortable to wear and must provide the correct level of protection (as determined by Octave Band Analysis). The following should be considered when choosing which to wear:

• Earplugs may not fit everyone. People with narrow ear canals or ear infections may not be able to use earplugs.

• Earplugs may cause ear infections. To avoid these problem disposable earplugs should not be re-used often or shared and non-disposable earplugs should be properly cleaned at regular and frequent intervals in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.

• Some people can experience dizziness and the sensation of vertigo when using earplugs.

• Everyone needs proper training to put the earplugs in properly.

• Some people find wearing earmuffs uncomfortable, particularly when it is warm or humid.

• All hearing protection must be properly stored when not in use.

• Departments must have a suitable programme for cleaning and maintenance of the hearing protection.

Every two years, or when something has changed including when a new member of staff starts, new equipment is purchased, equipment is repaired, the area has been modified or moved around. Periodic monitoring ensures that noise levels remain within safe limits and helps in maintaining compliance with the Control of Noise at Work Regulations 2005.