Since many organizations have work shifts other than 8-hours (often 10-hour or 12-hour shifts) there are formulas for calculating the allowable noise exposure levels for such shifts. These noise map measurements can be useful in determining what areas are contributors to the workers’ noise exposures and also useful in establishing locations where noise reduction may be necessary to achieve OSHA compliance. At 90 dB-A and above, hearing protection is mandatory as is an effort to reduce noise exposure levels through engineering means. Noise exposure levels 85-90 dB-A requires a Hearing Conservation Program including annual audiometric testing and availability of hearing protection. Also noted on the Noise Map should be areas where the noise levels are at or above the 90 dB-A-the Permissible Noise Exposure limit for an 8-hour shift. Noise MapĪnother important aspect of a noise survey is to perform a “Noise Map” of the work area particularly those areas that are between 85 and 90 dB requiring the implementation of a Hearing Conservation Program. The read-out is then compared to the OSHA Hearing Conservation limit of 85 dB-A for an 8-hour work shift and the 90 dB-A compliance level for an 8-hour day. Please note that the dosimeter is not a recorder-it takes a noise reading at ½ or 1-second intervals and accumulates the readings over a shift. The noise dosimeter is a small meter either worn on the belt with a line to a microphone clipped to the collar OR the newer dosimeters are only the size of a candy bar and worn on the collar. Just using a hand-held sound level meter is not adequate for a proper noise survey. To satisfy OSHA’s requirement for Noise Surveys (29CFR1910.94 for General Industry, 29CFR1926.52 for Construction) involves attaching a noise dosimeter to a worker for a work shift when there is a possibility that person and persons performing similar tasks may be exposed to noise at or above the 85 dB (decibels) Action Level or the regulatory level of 90 dB earmuffs. OSHA requires a noise dosimetry survey to determine if workers are exposed to noise that could damage their hearing. NOISE MAPPING AND DOSYMMETRY FREEIf you need a noise survey for OSHA compliance, dosimetry and noise testing as discussed in this article call us at 1-80 or e-mail us at for details and a free estimate. Workplace Noise Testing, Noise Dosimetry, Noise Mapping, Hearing Conservation – HELP!
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