Workplaces tend to evolve over time. While this is a positive in many cases, it can cause problems for noise. For example, you may choose new equipment that alters the noise profile. Or, existing plant may gradually get noisier because of wear and tear. Whatever happens, it’s important to know when you need to rethink your noise strategy to ensure workers aren’t at risk of hearing damage. You may need new tools like attenuators or silencers, new hearing protection, additional training, and more.
Some key changes to note
Traditionally workplace noise was steady and quite predictable in many cases. However, many workplaces are no longer like this. Instead, they are more complex with more noise sources to consider and other factors. It makes it harder to address them.
A key thing to consider is impulse noise is more common today. Rather than consistent noise levels, many workplaces actually have fluctuations, with particularly noisy peaks and quieter periods. Any high intensity bursts of sound can be very dangerous, risking immediate hearing damage.
It’s also important to note that noise exposure can vary massively. Many workers are more mobile than ever before, particularly if they work in key industries like construction and logistics. As a result, they can regularly transition between noisy and quieter areas. These transitions can increase risk and mean it is important to consider hearing protection and solutions like attenuators and silencers.
Is quieter equipment really safer?
One of the most critical things to consider is how dangerous electric equipment can be, including modern automated systems. Generally they can reduce noise intensity. For example, an electric motor is quieter than a combustion engine. However, they can generate mixed frequency and tonal noise. While it may not risk immediate hearing damage, it can be annoying, stressful, and fatiguing. It can be damaging over time, and can also cause distractions and disrupt communication.
Combinations
You may also need to rethink your noise strategy if the workplace has multiple hazards that compound the potential for hearing damage. For example, there could be excessive vibrations and high temperatures. If workers are already dealing with a lot of physical stress, noise can have a bigger impact.
An interesting thing here is research now shows the combination of certain contaminants and noise can cause more hearing damage. They can cause ototoxicity (ear poisoning), entering the bloodstream and damaging the inner ear. Common things to consider here include chemicals (particularly solvents) and heavy metals.
Design attenuators and silencers for different situations
Businesses need to consider if their existing noise strategy is effective, especially if the workplace has evolved. This is the best way to make sure they protect employees. It will also help to improve performance and can reduce key things like sickness absence.
Ventx is the best company in the UK to work with if you need to tackle industrial noise. We can design solutions for a variety of needs, utilising our knowledge of acoustics and engineering. So, speak to us about attenuators and silencers. We can help you to reduce noise levels and ensure consistency.
