Noise Survey Instruments
Dosimeter
A dosimeter is like a sound level meter except that it stores sound level measurements providing a time-weighted average (TWA) noise exposure reading typically for an 8-hour workday.
Because OSHA requires noise readings over time, the noise dosimeter is the primary meter used for compliance measurements. Because OSHA requires noise readings over time, the noise dosimeter is the primary meter used for compliance measurements.
With a dosimeter, a microphone is attached to the employee's clothing and the exposure measurement is simply read at the end of the desired time period. A reader may be used to read-out the dosimeter's measurements. Since the dosimeter is worn by the employee, it measures noise levels in those locations in which the employee travels.
A sound level meter can also be positioned within the immediate vicinity of the exposed worker to obtain an individual exposure estimate. Such procedures are generally referred to as "personal" noise monitoring.
Dosimeters can be used to:
- Make compliance measurements according to OSHA's noise standard.
- Measure the employee's exposure to noise and automatically compute the necessary noise dose calculations.
Click here to learn more about the considerations of use for dosimeters.
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2-5. According to OSHA's noise standard, what is the primary instrument for making compliance measurements?
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