HSE BULLETIN

SUBJECT: NOISE POLLUTION Date: 15.08.07

Noise can be defined as unwanted sound. Measurement unit is called decibel. See some noise measurements results according to noise sources:
Rock drill 110 dB(A) Private car 70 dB(A)
Heavy vehicle 90 dB(A) Conservation 60 dB(A)
Within certain peak limits that cause instant damage, it is the total dose of noise that is of concern. In many work situations the noise levels will fluctuate
considerably throughout the day. By measuring the duration and intensity of each fluctuation we can calculate the noise dose averaged over an 8 hour period. The
primary effect of exposure to high levels of noise is the development of hearing loss. This can be temporary or permanent and can result from prolonged exposure in
the case of noise induced hearing loss or from a single exposure to very high levels in the case of blast deafness. These are known respectively as chronic (long
term) and acute (short term) effects.
Physiological Effects: Very high levels of noise have been found to cause muscular tension, tightening of blood vessels, raised heart rate and effects on the
digestive system.
Annoying Effects: Irritability, loss of sleep and stress symptoms may result from even low levels of noise in some circumstances.
Interference with Communication: Inability to hear instructions or warning signals and the misunderstanding of verbal communication can all have serious
consequences.
Noise Control
Like other forms of pollution, noise can be controlled by attention to the following three factors:
1. Source
Elimination or reduction at source
Providing barriers to the transmission of noise through air or structures
2. The Path
Enclose machines, motors etc.
Installation acoustic panels provide absorption of the noise and prevention of the reflection
Silence for the high pressure gases, steam or air emissions.
3. Person
Location the noise source at a safe distance from people
Limiting the duration of exposure with personal protective equipment
Ear plugs and muffles are reduced noise level approximately 20 dB(A).

At the site when using rock breaker, concrete breaker, grinding machine, hiltigun and carpentry workshop and near the operational
compressor, wearing ear plugs are mandatory.

DON’T FORGET THAT LOSS OF HEARING CAN’T BE TREATED.