Noise

Noise is one of the most widespread hazards facing Australian workers. Excessive noise levels over a long period of time may damage hearing. This may happen gradually and painlessly and minor deterioration from one day to the next may not be noticed. Excessive noise in the workplace presents a risk of hearing damage and other health problems.

The parts of the ear that process high frequency sounds are usually the first to be affected. The degree of hearing loss depends on the loudness of the noise and level of exposure. Sudden explosive sounds, such as gunshots, can cause immediate damage.

Some people exposed to excessive noise develop tinnitus, which is described as a constant ringing sound. For most cases of noise-induced hearing loss, there is no cure. Hearing aids only amplify sounds and can’t replace normal hearing.

Risk factors

Excessive noise is made up of two parts – the period of time you are exposed to the noise and the loudness of the noise. Continuous exposure to noise above 85 decibels during an eight hour day is considered to be excessive noise. (The noise of a heavy truck is about 85 decibels, while a jet taking off is about 120 decibels.)

Noise is an unavoidable issue in many working industries, including music entertainment, cabinet making, metal fabrication, road freight transport and shooting ranges.

Risk controls

Assessing noise levels, a noise control policy, hearing conservation program and worker awareness are necessary risk controls. Testing alone is not a preventive mechanism but it is an important part of managing risks from noise exposure in a workplace.

Employer responsibilities

Employers have an obligation to manage noise exposure at work by:

• carrying out a risk assessment to determine the risks from noise exposure
• developing a noise control policy and hearing conservation program
• providing workers with information on noise, the risks from noise exposure and the control measures put in place at the workplace.