Noise is one of the hazards that can be observed in the workplace. Because it is a hazard, it has the potential to harm the human body. One body part that noise affects a lot is the human ear. Noise can cause deafness and affect people’s health. Noise is a form of pollution as it can cause an environmental nuisance and an irritant to the human body.
Noise can be generated in the workplace in various ways, such as from machines, equipment, or activities that can produce noise, such as demolition or piling, welding, grinding, driving a heavy-duty vehicle, etc.
There are various ways noise can be minimised or reduced on the site.
Read also:
- 39 Top Home Safety Tips Everyone Should Know.
- Toolbox talk on Wheelbarrow safety.
- confined space permit toolbox talk
- how to make the right choice of fire extinguisher for your home.
Various ways to reduce noise in the workplace.
- Ensure that all activities involving the use of noise equipment are minimised or choose a more suitable one.
- Provide site huts and stockpiles as noise shields to contain the noise.
- Ensure that all work restrictions on working hours are obeyed and carried out adequately.
- Ensure all panels on the generators and compressors are closed to prevent the noise from entering the environment.
- Ensure that all workers know about noise hazards and provide adequate training.
- Conduct a noise assessment and determine the locations where the workers are most likely to be exposed to a high noise level. Also, choose the areas that need improvement.
- Increase the distance between the noisy equipment and the workers in the workplace.
- Implement work practices that reduce or limit workers’ time in noisy workplaces.
- Encourage job rotation and job breaks to reduce workers’ exposure to noise.
- Noise barriers, such as acoustic screens, should be installed to block the direct path of sound and contain the noise.
Onyeka Emma is a QHSE Professional with more than 10 years of experience in occupational health and safety, which spans many industries such as construction, beverage, oil and gas, etc. He has many health and safety certifications, including NEBOSH IGC, ISO 9001:2015, ISO 14001:2015, and ISO 45001:2018 Lead auditor certificate. A member of IOSH, ISPON, and Nigeria Red Cross Society. He is interested in business, entrepreneurship, Speaking, and motivating people to do better for themselves. He enjoys leisure with a good motivational book.
