750 Introduction to Industrial Hygiene

Noise

Exposure Controls

The final three HOC strategies (4–6) focus on reducing the probability of an accident by keeping employee noise exposure within acceptable levels.

4. Warnings: This method alerts workers to the presence of noise hazards. Note: In some HOC models, warnings are categorized as administrative controls. Examples include:

• Posting OSHA-compliant signs near high-noise areas
• Installing flashing lights in addition to alarms for workers with hearing difficulties
• Using buzzers, whistles, or horns to alert workers of temporary high-noise tasks
• Providing wearable devices that vibrate to warn workers when noise levels exceed safe limits

5. Administrative/Work Practice Controls: Administrative and work practice controls change how work is performed by mandating training, policies, processes, procedures, work practices, and rules to reduce exposure . Examples include:

• Conducting noise protection and prevention training for affected employees
• Mandating policies, procedures, and work practices that control exposure to excessive noise
• Mandating and enforcing safe work practices related to the use of PPE
• Rotating workers to limit time spent in high-noise areas
• Operating noisy machines during shifts when fewer people are exposed
• Scheduling noisy maintenance work during off-shifts or when fewer employees are present
• Rearranging workflows so noisy equipment is placed farther away from workstations
• Adopting quieter work practice techniques, such as welding instead of riveting or gluing instead of hammering
• Encouraging "quiet breaks" in low-noise areas to reduce hearing strain
• Providing quiet areas where workers can gain relief from hazardous noise sources
• Restricting worker presence to a suitable distance away from noisy equipment

6. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): PPE is most commonly used in conjunction with the other methods when they do not fully reduce noise to an acceptable level. Hearing protection devices (HPDs), such as earmuffs and earplugs, are considered an acceptable but less desirable option to control exposure to noise. They are generally used during the time necessary to implement engineering or administrative controls, when such controls are not feasible, or when worker hearing tests indicate significant hearing damage. Examples include:

• Providing foam or custom-molded earplugs to block excessive noise
• Offering earmuffs with headbands for workers who prefer not to use earplugs
• Using electronic earmuffs that filter background noise but allow communication
• Fit-testing PPE to ensure comfort and effectiveness for each worker
• Training employees on proper insertion, use, and care of earplugs and earmuffs

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