Noise control can be a problem in many workplaces and exposure to high levels of noise from factory floors or manufacturing process can have adverse health effects on workers and employees. Appropriate acoustic solutions must be installed to ensure noise levels are within recommended guidelines to protect the safety of employees.
Noise Exposure Risks
Noise in the workplace can have serious implications for employees. Exposure to high levels of noise for extended periods of time can result in permanent hearing damage. As well as this, sudden loud bangs that can occur from equipment operating in the workplace can have a number of psychological and physiological effects on the workforce and can affect communications leading to an increased risk of accidents.
Assessing Noise Exposure
Knowing if its noisy or not in the workplace can often be difficult to define. Measuring and assessing noise levels within the workplace is essential for organisations to gauge whether they have a noise problem that needs a solution.
Noise levels can be measured using noise meters – an electronic device that gives an initial indication of the noise levels, or to carry out a more detailed noise survey. Interpreting the results of this information correctly and in line with regulations can be difficult and can require expert assistance, especially when it comes to identifying a solution.
Noise Exposure Action Levels
In line with current Irish Regulations from the Health & Safety Authority, employers should reduce the risk of exposure to noise to the lowest possible level that is practicable. Noise identification measures should look at treating the noise at its source – the most effective means of treatment.
There are two key noise exposure levels at which organisations should take action:
- First Action Levels – between 80-85dB
- Second Action Levels – above 85dB
The Section Action Level being the most demanding and stringent requires organisations to put a Noise Reduction Program in place to reduce noise levels.
Ventac’s Noise Control Solutions
Noise reduction can come in many forms depending on what the specific problem is. Ventac can conduct a noise level measurement and analysis test to identify the key noise sources. Our assessments are conducted within the normal operating conditions of the plant or factory in question in order to determine the exact noise problems and their source. Often a single source affecting overall plant noise levels can be identified.
Our Environmental Noise Control sector specialises in providing high-performance solutions for existing builds including industrial units, food & drink manufacturing and commercial projects, along with providing engineering and design support to consultants, contractors, and developers for new build applications.
Ventac’s products include bespoke solutions to control noise and vibrations either through noise damping, attenuation, isolation or preventing the transmission of noise using solutions such as acoustic enclosures and barriers.
Ventac are a recognised market name for the manufacture and supply of complete noise control and acoustic solutions for new builds and industrial developments within the Irish market. For more information on our acoustic sound solutions, or if noise control is a problem in your workplace, get in touch with a member of our team today.
