Noise Exposure – Part 16 in the OHS Code
This is an overview of updates to Part 16 of the Alberta Occupational Health & Safety Code and is effective March 31, 2023, which reflect the changes in d CSA Standard Z94.2-14 (R2019), Hearing Protection Devices – Performance, Selection, Care, and Use.
Part 16 of the Occupational Health & Safety Code covers requirements intended to protect workers from exposure to occupational noise hazards. Key changes include:
- Updates to technical standards and terminology to reflect current technology.
- A reduced action limit for conducting a noise exposure assessment.
- A new requirement for fit testing of hearing protection.
- Clarification of the competency of persons conducting noise assessments.
Part 16 of the Occupational Health & Safety Code covers requirements intended to protect workers from exposure to occupational noise hazards. Key changes include:
- Updates to technical standards and terminology to reflect current technology.
- A reduced action limit for conducting a noise exposure assessment.
- A new requirement for fit testing of hearing protection.
- Clarification of the competency of persons conducting noise assessments.
Action Limit for Noise Assessments
The threshold for conducting a noise exposure assessment is reduced from 85 decibels (dBA) to 82 dBA to ensure noise is assessed before the occupational exposure limit is exceeded. The noise exposure assessment must be conducted in accordance with the updated CSA Standard Z107.56-18, Measurement of noise exposure.
The threshold level of a noise dosimeter used to conduct an assessment has been changed to align with the referenced CSA standard for noise assessments. The technical standards that sound level meters, integrating sound level meters and dosimeters must meet have been updated to the most current versions. WHS Occupational Hygienist use the must up to date and calibrated sound level meters and noise dosimeters.
The threshold level of a noise dosimeter used to conduct an assessment has been changed to align with the referenced CSA standard for noise assessments. The technical standards that sound level meters, integrating sound level meters and dosimeters must meet have been updated to the most current versions. WHS Occupational Hygienist use the must up to date and calibrated sound level meters and noise dosimeters.
Qualified Persons
Established competency requirements for the person conducting the noise exposure assessment are now specified. The person conducting the assessment must be:
WHS Industrial hygienists have the education, training, and experience to evaluate workplace noise levels, identify noise sources, assess the potential health effects of noise exposure, and recommend appropriate control measures to reduce noise levels in the workplace.
- Trained in conducting noise exposure assessments.
- Trained in the calibration, operation, and maintenance of the equipment used in conducting noise exposure measurements.
- Able to demonstrate an understanding of the method used for measurement.
WHS Industrial hygienists have the education, training, and experience to evaluate workplace noise levels, identify noise sources, assess the potential health effects of noise exposure, and recommend appropriate control measures to reduce noise levels in the workplace.
Fit Testing - Hearing Protection
A new requirement has been added for employers to ensure workers are fit tested for the hearing protection devices they use and wear. Fit testing of the devices must meet the updated CSA Standard Z94.2-14 (R2019), Hearing Protection Devices – Performance, Selection, Care, and Use.
This change is intended to prevent noise induced hearing loss. The effectiveness of hearing protection is greatly reduced if the equipment does not fit correctly or is not inserted or worn correctly. WHS certified industrial hygienist and trained safety professionals can help you prepare a fit testing program. for hearing protection devices
This change is intended to prevent noise induced hearing loss. The effectiveness of hearing protection is greatly reduced if the equipment does not fit correctly or is not inserted or worn correctly. WHS certified industrial hygienist and trained safety professionals can help you prepare a fit testing program. for hearing protection devices
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