TOOLBOX 05

NOISE

Limit of safe Noise levels?

Sounds at or below 70 dBA are generally considered safe. Any sound at or above 85 dBA is
more likely to damage your hearing over time.

Noise sources: Industrial Machinery

Power Tools (e.g., Grinder)
Loud music

How can you tell if noise is hazardous?

1. Noise is loud or startling
2. You get ringing in your ears
3. Pain in your ear

There are different types of Ear protection you can use against noise.

You should wear hearing protection if

1. Safety signs are in place
2. High noise is emitted in the area
3. Noise levels are uncomfortable for you

Definition of dB?
Frequency, reported in Hertz (Hz), measures the number of sound vibrations in one second.
Near silence is expressed as 0 dB but a sound measured at 10 dB is actually 10 times louder. If
a sound is 20 dB, that's 100 times louder than near silence.

Ear Plugs?
 They are made of foam that compresses and fits in your ear.
 Foam expands in your ear, giving an air tight seal to stop noise
 Ear plugs are disposable so they are hygienic

Ear Muffs?
 Ear muffs should be placed over ears and the headband adjusted to fit firmly.
 Ear muffs surround the ear and block any noise from entering.
 Can only protect hearing if there is nothing interrupting the seal.

For any Faults or damage, you should check for the following:
 Cracks in casing of earmuffs
 Tears in the seal or foam of earmuffs
 Bent or broken parts
 Stretched headbands
 Deterioration of foam on muffs or plugs
NAME AND SURNAME ID NUMBER SIGNATURE