Factsheet: Noise

The Work Health and Safety Act (the WHS Act) introduces increased responsibilities on employers² regarding noise. We will endeavour to explain the obligations in the simplest terms.

Your safety system needs to be applied equally to contractors as your employees. This training session will show you how to manage this complex arrangement and close as many exposure gaps as possible.

1. Noise can either:

• Cause gradual hearing loss over a period of time due to exposure
• So loud that it causes immediate hearing loss

For each of these levels there limits of what is acceptable. Noise above 140dB²{C} or above 85dB (A) for 8 hour continuous period requires specific controls.

2. Audiometric testing:

• Must be conducted if noise levels are above the limits noted in part 1
• Must be provided within three months of the worker commencing work
• Regular follow-up tests must be carried out at least every two years
• You must consult with your workers and their health and safety representatives
• Workers should be given the results of audiometric testing accompanied by a written explanation of the meaning and implications

Further information is available from the Managing Noise And Preventing Hearing Loss At Work Code of Practice 2011.

For more information, contact Recovery Partners on 1300 OHS RTW (647 789)

² we use this term to include PCBU’s
² Noise is measures in DECIBELS (dB)