Noise in the workplace can have serious health risks for those exposed to it, including hearing loss, tinnitus, stress, fatigue, depression, high blood pressure, heart disease, and sleep disturbances.
The most common sources of loud noise in a workplace come from machinery, vehicles and tools, loud music, and from other workers talking or yelling. Exposure to high levels of noise can cause hearing loss, tinnitus, stress, fatigue, depression, high blood pressure, heart disease, and sleep disturbances. It can also reduce concentration levels, and make it difficult to communicate with co-workers.
In New Zealand, employers have a legal obligation to manage noise in the workplace and ensure that workers are not exposed to excessive noise levels. Under the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015, employers must identify and assess noise hazards and implement measures to reduce the amount of noise in the workplace.
Undertaking personal exposure monitoring is essential to ensure the safety of workers in noisy workplaces. This includes identifying and assessing the sources of workplace noise, as well as implementing measures to reduce the amount of noise. Noise control measures may include using quieter equipment, better insulation, and training employees on how to work safely in noisy environments. Personal exposure monitoring should include using dosimeter badges to measure an individual’s exposure to noise, noise mapping to identify noise sources, and noise level measurement to assess the levels of noise in the workplace.
Employers must ensure that workers are not exposed to noise levels that exceed the recommended limits. Any workers who are exposed to high levels of noise should be provided with appropriate hearing protection. It is also important that workers receive regular training on how to recognize and assess noise hazards, and how to protect themselves from noise-related injuries. Employers should also make sure that employees are aware of the potential risks associated with noise exposure and the steps they can take to minimize them. Employers should also encourage their workers to report any noise concerns, and should keep records of noise levels and any steps taken to reduce them.
Noise-related illnesses can have serious health implications, but they are preventable. By undertaking personal exposure monitoring, employers can ensure that their employees are not exposed to excessive levels of noise and can take steps to reduce the risks associated with noise in the workplace. It is important for employers to be proactive in managing noise in the workplace and to ensure that their employees are aware of the risks associated with noise exposure.
Regular training should be provided to employees on how to recognize and assess noise hazards, how to protect themselves from noise-related injuries, and how to work safely in noisy environments. Employers should also make sure that their workers are aware of the potential risks associated with noise exposure and the steps they can take to minimize them.
By taking these steps to reduce noise in the workplace and by undertaking personal exposure monitoring, employers can ensure the safety of their employees and can help to prevent noise-related illnesses.
