Workplace Noise Assessment Guide | How to Measure Occupational Noise | SoundPLANmanda

Complete Assessment Guide

Workplace Noise Assessment:
A Step-by-Step Guide

Learn how to plan, conduct, and document effective workplace noise assessments that protect workers and satisfy regulatory requirements.

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Why Conduct Workplace Noise Assessments?

⚠️

Legal Requirement

OSHA, EU Directives, and most national regulations require employers to assess noise exposure when levels may exceed action values (typically 80-85 dBA).

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Protect Worker Health

Noise-induced hearing loss is permanent and preventable. Proper assessment identifies at-risk workers before damage occurs.

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Prioritize Controls

Noise maps reveal which areas need engineering controls, helping you allocate budget to highest-impact improvements.

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Audit Documentation

Documented assessments demonstrate due diligence and provide evidence for insurance, certifications, and legal defense.

The 6-Step Noise Assessment Process

1

πŸ“‹ Plan Your Assessment

Identify work areas, shifts, and jobs to assess. Obtain floor plans and production schedules. Determine measurement strategy (task-based, job-based, or full-day).

2

πŸ”Š Select & Calibrate Equipment

Use Class 1 or Class 2 sound level meters with current calibration certificates. Check calibration before and after each session using an acoustic calibrator.

3

πŸ“ Conduct Measurements

Position microphone 10-40cm from worker’s ear. Record LAeq for each measurement location or task. Note LCpeak for impulsive noise sources. Document conditions and anomalies.

4

πŸ“Š Import & Analyze Data

Import measurements into SoundPLANmanda. Software generates noise contour maps, calculates worker exposures, and computes uncertainty values automatically.

5

⚠️ Compare to Limits

Compare LEX,8h results (with uncertainty) against regulatory limits. Identify workers or areas exceeding action or limit values. Flag areas requiring controls.

6

πŸ“„ Generate Reports & Act

Create comprehensive reports with maps, data tables, and recommendations. Communicate findings to management. Implement controls and schedule follow-up assessments.

Equipment Checklist

Essential Equipment

  • βœ… Class 1 or 2 integrating sound level meter
  • βœ… Acoustic calibrator (e.g., 94 dB or 114 dB)
  • βœ… Windscreen for outdoor/ventilation areas
  • βœ… Tripod or extension arm
  • βœ… Spare batteries
  • βœ… Calibration certificates

Documentation Materials

  • βœ… Floor plan or site map
  • βœ… Measurement log sheets
  • βœ… Production schedule / work roster
  • βœ… Camera for documenting noise sources
  • βœ… PPE for high-noise areas
  • βœ… SoundPLANmanda software license

Need Assessment Support?

Our team can help you plan your noise assessment or troubleshoot software questions.

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