Noise at Work

Question 1

What is the Definition of Noise?

Answer 1

Unwanted sound, Sound is a varying pressure wave travelling through a medium.

Question 2

What is the two important characteristics of Noise?

Answer 2

Frequency;
- The commonly quoted frequency range for adults is 20Hz-20kHz

Loudness;
- Loudness is measured in logarithmic Decibel (dB) scale. A scale that is corrected for lower frequencies (human ear is less sensitive to lower frequencies) measure sound in dBA.

Question 3

What increase in dB effectively doubles the loudness?

Answer 3

A 3dB increase is the equivalent to doubling the loudness.

Question 4

Name three detrimental effects of Noise?

Answer 4

Hearing loss, Tinnitus, Cardiovascular effects, Physiological effects, stress, annoyance

Question 5

Name three types of PPE available to mitigate against the effects of Noise?

Answer 5

Ear Defenders
Canal caps
Ear plugs.

Question 6

What is the legal limit for the maximum Daily or Weekly dB value exposure to Noise?

Answer 6

Legal limits on the levels of noise to which workers can be exposed. Daily or weekly exposure of 87dB, peak sound pressure 140dB.

Question 7

State two methods of reducing Noise?

Answer 7

• Reduce noise levels at source
• Reduce noise exposure times
• Use of PPE
• Constantly monitor exposure levels
• Ensure action is taken
• Re-assess noise exposure after measures have been taken.

Question 8

State five areas on a RAF Station where you may encounter loud noise levels?

Answer 8

• Airfields
• On or near aircraft
• Generator rooms
• Workshops
• In confined areas when using machinery
• Firing ranges.

Question 9

What is the noise level that stipulates the Employer has to provide information, training and making hearing protection available?

Answer 9

85 dB the employer has to provide signage and PPE is optional

90 dB is the mandatory level to wear PPE

Question 10

How does JSP 375 determine that a sound level is so loud that it is damaging your hearing?

Answer 10

“If you have to shout or raise your voice to be heard by someone 2m away, or if your ears are ringing when you finish work” – JSP 375.

Question 11

What MOD Form is used to document a Noise Assessment?

Answer 11

MoD Form 5017

Question 12

How long are Noise Assessment records kept for?

Answer 12

All noise and risk assessments, health surveillance, training, and maintenance records etc should be kept for a period of no less than 60 years and in accordance with JSP 375, Part 2, Volume 1, Chapter 39 - Retention of Records

Question 13

What are the Employees responsibilities with regards to Noise?

Answer 13

Follow all protective work arrangements
Inform manager of ototoxic medications
Inform manager of hearing problems
Use designated PPE correctly.