Assessing noise levels
A noise assessment should be carried out when workers and others may be exposed to excessive noise levels. Information on how to identify noise hazards is provided in appendix 3 of the Noise Advisory Standard 2004 (now known as a Code of Practice).
The instrument for assessing noise levels is a sound level meter (SLM) or noise dose meter (NDM). The meter is designed to measure a frequency-weighted and time-weighted value of the sound pressure level. Detailed information on how to carry out a noise assessment with a sound level meter is provided in appendix 4 of the Noise Advisory Standard 2004 (now known as a Code of Practice).
The general aim of a noise assessment is to:
- identify all persons likely to be exposed to excessive noise
- obtain information on work practices and associated noise sources
- check the effectiveness of measures taken to reduce noise exposure
- choose appropriate personal hearing protectors for persons exposed to risks from excessive noise
- define hearing protection areas at work
Noise assessments should be repeated at least every five years or whenever there is:
- installation, adjustment or removal of plant
- change in workload or operating equipment which may cause change in noise levels
- change in work processes that may impact on noise exposures
- change in building structure likely to impact on noise levels
- working arrangements affecting the length of time workers are exposed to noise
Noise assessment records should be kept at the workplace in a consistent format and made available for inspection by those exposed at the workplace.
More detailed information on noise measurement and recording is available in part 1 of AS/NZS 1269 Occupational noise management (non-Queensland Government link) . A person carrying out a noise assessment should meet the competency requirements set out in appendix A of part 1 of AS/NZS 1269.
Where the assessment shows that a risk exists then elimination, engineering or administrative control measures should be implemented. For detailed information on how to meet your legal obligations in managing noise, check sections 4 and 5 of the Noise Advisory Standard 2004 (now known as a Code of Practice).
More about Risk Management.
Last updated October 24, 2005