Eliminating Hazards of Noise Pollution

• Must be conducted in accordance with CSA Standard Z107.56-18, Measurement of noise exposure.
• Approved equipment—noise dosimeter, sound level meter— must be calibrated to meet American National Standards Institute (ANSI) or other specified requirements.

Noise pollution—the unwanted or harmful presence of noise in the environment— has various negative effects on the health and well-being of workers, as well as the environment.

Noise assessments are critical to evaluate and manage the potential impacts of noise pollution.

Steps for formal noise assessments 

1. Determine measurement conditions
2. Select noise-measuring instrument or device
3. Collect data
4. Record important details
5. Validate measurements; collect more data if necessary
6. Calculate and analyse results
7. Create report

Required details for assessment reports 

1. Measured sound level readings
2. Dates of measurements
3. Evaluated tasks or occupations
4. Type of measuring equipment
5. Evaluated work area
6. Date of completed assessment

The report must be available upon request and retained for three years after the assessment.

Noise assessment training equips individuals with knowledge, skills and practical experience to conduct effective noise assessments, analyse noise data and develop mitigation strategies for noise exposure.

• Basic noise assessment training Provides individuals with an introductory understanding of principles and practices involved in assessing noise levels and their potential impacts.
• Advanced noise assessment training Builds on basic training and equips participants with necessary skills and knowledge for handling complex noise assessment projects and addressing challenges beyond the scope of basic training.
• Training providers Organizations need to identify vendors that can offer one or both levels of noise assessment training.
• Who can conduct the assessment? According to OHS AB’s bulletin, Noise at the work site, employers can use competent in-house staff, or hire a competent service provider (e.g., an OHS Hygienist). 

Competency in this context refers to staff or consultants that know what to do and have been offered basic noise assessment training.