Noise

Overview

Noise, or unwanted sound, in the industrial environment is an everyday fact of working life. Exposure to high levels of noise causes hearing loss and may cause other harmful health effects such as tinnitus “ringing of the ears”, increased blood pressure, and stress related problems. Noise may also cause annoyance or difficulty in communicating or working effectively and safely.

Noise-induced hearing loss can be temporary or permanent. Temporary hearing loss results from short-term exposures to noise, with normal hearing returning after a period of rest. Generally, prolonged exposure to high noise levels over a period of time gradually causes permanent hearing loss.

The OSHA Hearing Conservation Amendment, 29CFR1910.95, requires a comprehensive hearing conservation program for all employees whose noise exposures equal or exceed an 8-hour time-weighted average (TWA) of 85 decibels (dB), known as the “Action Level”. Use of hearing protection is recommended at this level. At noise levels exceeding 90 dB, employees are required to use hearing protection.

Between 1986 and 1997, NIOSH prepared a summary of noise exposure evaluations made at a variety of industries. A summary of this data is included.