Ensuring Accurate Noise Exposure Assessments

​At Western Health & Safety, we prioritize the well-being of workers across various industries by providing top-notch occupational hygiene services. One critical aspect of our services is the accurate assessment of noise exposure, which is vital for protecting workers' hearing and overall health. In this blog post, we'll walk you through our comprehensive Noise Dosimetry Standard Operating Procedure (SOP), detailing how we conduct noise assessments to ensure compliance with safety standards and regulations.
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NOISE DOSIMTERY PROTOCOLS

The primary goal of our Noise Dosimetry Protocols is to outline a clear and consistent method for measuring workers' exposure to noise levels. By adhering to this Protocol, we can provide reliable data that informs our clients' decisions on managing noise risks in the workplace. This SOP applies to all noise dosimetry activities we conduct, covering both individual and group assessments, including the determination of Similar Exposure Groups (SEGs).  WHS Sampling protocol is compliant with the CSA Z107.56-18 - Measurement of noise exposure, and ​NIOSH Guide to Occupational Exposure Sampling (Leidel et al., 1977).
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Similar Exposure Groups (SEGs)

SEGs are essential in noise exposure assessment, as they group workers who have similar noise exposure levels due to comparable tasks, work areas, and equipment usage. To accurately determine SEGs, we consider several factors:

• Work Tasks: We group workers performing similar tasks.
• Acoustical Environment: We assess the similarity of work environments, including proximity to noise sources.
• Equipment and Tools: We evaluate the type and frequency of use of noise-generating equipment.
• Shifts and Work Patterns: We consider workers' shifts and exposure durations.

For smaller groups, such as a team of 12 workers, we carefully analyze each worker's tasks and environments to determine if they belong to a single SEG or multiple SEGs. This ensures that workers within an SEG experience homogenous exposure.
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Sampling Strategy

To ensure accurate measurements, we use calibrated sound level meters and dosimeters. Our sampling strategy involves determining the appropriate number of samples based on group size. For instance:

• For a group size of 8, we sample 7 individuals.
• For a group size of 11-12, we sample 10 individuals.
• For a group size of 25-29, we sample 15 individuals.

These samples are collected throughout a typical work shift, using logging dosimeters to record noise levels continuously.
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ENSURING PRECISION AND ACCURACY

Our data analysis process follows a precise measurement procedure:

• If a single measurement result is within 6 dB of the criterion sound level (e.g., 85 dBA), we repeat the measurement.
• If two measurements are within 2 dB and the average result falls within 2 dB on each side of the criterion sound level, further measurements are deemed unnecessary. Otherwise, more measurements are taken.

For example, if the criterion level is 85 dBA and the measurement result is 101 dBA, no further measurements are needed. However, if two measurements yield 82 and 84 dBA, additional measurements are required.
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We combine individual Leq measurements to determine the group's exposure level, using the following formula:

COMPRESHENSIVE REPORTING

Our reports include all mandatory elements, such as compliance statements, measurement dates, worker details, and equipment used. Optional elements like product characteristics and extraneous noise sources are also documented. This thorough reporting ensures that our clients have all the necessary information to understand and manage noise exposure risks effectively.
We uphold rigorous quality control and assurance standards, ensuring consistency in measurement procedures and data accuracy. Any deviations from the standard procedure are documented and justified.
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STAYING CURRENT WITH STANDRARDS

We align our SOP with industry standards, including the CSA Z107.56-18 - Measurement of noise exposure and the NIOSH Guide to Occupational Exposure Sampling. Our SOP is reviewed annually or whenever significant changes occur in work processes or regulations.

CONCLUSIONS

At Western Health & Safety, our commitment to excellence extends to every project we undertake. By following our detailed Noise Dosimetry SOP, we ensure that all noise exposure assessments are accurate, reliable, and compliant with the latest standards. This dedication helps us protect workers' health and safety, fostering safer and healthier workplaces across all industries.

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