Noise

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9. Noise

9.1. Scope

9.1.1. This chapter gives additional and specific information to help employers,

workers and competent authorities apply the general principles in Chapters 2 and 3.

9.1.2. The information on the assessment of noise exposure and protective and

preventive measures contained in this code and provided for in the Working

Environment (Air Pollution, Noise and Vibration) Convention (No. 148), and

Recommendation (No. 156), 1977, and the ILO code of practice Protection of workers

against noise and vibration in the working environment (Geneva, 1984) should apply.

Further detailed information can be found in section 9 of the annex.

9.1.3. In addition, for the prediction of the amount of hearing loss expected to

occur as a function of noise exposure level and duration, age and sex, when no national

provisions are available, then the international consensus standard ISO 1999, Acoustics:

Determination of occupational noise exposure and estimate of noise-induced hearing

impairment (1990), should apply.

9.1.4. This chapter does not deal with exposure to either infra-sound or

ultrasound. Other national or internationally recognized standards should be consulted

for an assessment of the hazard or risk from exposure to those types of sound.

9.2. Assessment

9.2.1. The level of noise and/or duration of exposure should not exceed the

limits established by the competent authority or other internationally recognized

standards. The assessment should, as appropriate, consider:

(a) the risk of hearing impairment;

(b) the degree of interference to speech communications essential for safety purposes;

(c) the risk of nervous fatigue, with due consideration to the mental and physical

workload and other non-auditory hazards or effects.

9.2.2. For the prevention of adverse effects of noise on workers, employers

should:

(a) identify the sources of noise and the tasks which give rise to exposure;

(b) seek the advice of the competent authority and/or the occupational health service

about exposure limits and other standards to be applied;

(c) seek the advice of the supplier of processes and equipment about expected noise

emission;