Watson and Wild Ltd Watson & Wild Ltd Occupational Hygiene Survey For Workplace Noise Factory for Manufacturing Company

Transcription

1 Watson & Wild Ltd Developing a healthier workplace Occupational Hygiene Survey For Workplace Noise at Factory for Manufacturing Company Registered Office: 2nd Floor, 43 Broomfield Road, Chelmsford, Essex CM1 1SY Registered in England & Wales No Main Office 50 Main Street Thorpe Satchville Melton Mowbray Leics LE14 2DQ

2 PROJECT SHEET Job No: S000/00 Requested by: Site visit carried out by: Health and Safety Manager Date(s) of site visit: December 2007 Report prepared by: Report prepared by: Signature Dated: January 2008 Martyn Wild MSc BSc (Hons) Mr AK Watson LLM MSc Dip Occ Hyg Mr AK Watson LLM MSc Dip Occ Hyg Mr AK Watson LLM MSc Dip Occ Hyg..

3 ITEM CONTENTS SUMMARY 1 ACTION PLAN 2 INTRODUCTION 5 OBJECTIVES 5 LIMITATIONS 5 WORK PROCESSES, PRACTICES & SOURCES OF EXPOSURE 6 OBSERVATIONS & DISCUSSION OF RESULTS 8 APPENDICES 1. Process Flow Diagram Task Assessment Sheets Methodology Sampling Results & Site Plan Noise at Work Regulations Health Effects of Hazardous Agents Third Octave Frequency Analysis Graphs 33

4 SUMMARY A noise survey was carried out of Factory for Manufacturing Company by Watson and Wild Ltd in December Noise dosimetry carried out over the day shift in the Press Shop, showed that personal exposures to noise ranged between db (A) LEP,d. All of the personal dosimeter results exceeded the Upper Exposure Action Value of 85 db (A) L EP,d, and eight of the eleven personal dosimeter results exceeded the peak sound pressure of 137 db (C). The highest exposures were obtained from the personnel who operated the Rhodes punch press and those operatives who operated machinery such as; nail guns & cutting saws etc. The main contributor to the noise exposure of the personnel working in the Press shop, Paint plant and assembly areas was the Rhodes punch press. It is recommended that the following action plan be implemented in order to reduce noise levels and comply with the Noise at Work Regulations Watson & Wild Ltd will contact you within one month to ascertain if you need any help in implementing or project managing this action plan. Alternatively Watson & Wild Ltd can be contacted by phone on / or by at if you require any help or assistance in dealing with the identification, evaluation or control of any physical, chemical, biological or ergonomic health risk.

5 ACTION PLAN The following actions are required to prevent and control exposures: Serial Action Required Ideally, re-locate noisy sections & machines (e.g. Rhodes punch press, Wood shop etc.), which will reduce the exposure to noise of the operatives working elsewhere in the Press shop building. Alternatively, isolate the noisy sections & machines using noise barriers & enclosures. Attenuate the entry & exit ports to the Perforating machines. Display signs above noisy machinery & tools with the words Use Ear Protection When Operating This Machine. Ensure that the provided hearing protection attenuates the noise exposure of the operatives to below 87 db (A) {see appendix 7}. Individual responsible for action Implementation date Remarks

6 The following actions are required to ensure that prevention & control measures remain effective: Serial Action Required Managers must ensure that process equipment is maintained in a good condition to ensure that the noise generation is minimised. Managers and supervisors must ensure that controls are applied and safe working practices are followed (e.g. the wearing of appropriate ear defenders when using the noisy machines). Operators must be provided with information, instruction and training so that they know and understand the health risks and the precautionary and preventative measures that they have to take. Users of hearing protection should be trained in its proper selection, use and maintenance. Users should be informed how to report defects and how to obtain spare parts. Individual responsible for taking action Implementation date Remarks

7 The following actions are required to comply with the law: Serial Action Required A copy of the noise dosimetry results must be included in risk assessments and personal medical records. The risk assessment must be reviewed & if necessary amended, if there is any significant alteration to the process. Noise measurements must be repeated if there is any significant alteration to the process. Individual responsible for taking action Implementation date Remarks

8 INTRODUCTION The Company specialises in the manufacture of metal items for the retail industry. The survey was undertaken during the day shift whilst normal work tasks were being carried out. OBJECTIVES The objectives of the survey were to: i) Identify the sources and routes of exposure to noise in the production areas in operation at ii) iii) iv) the time of the survey. Evaluate the risks, whether real or potential; Assess current working practices to identify those that could potentially increase exposure; Evaluate current measures used to prevent or control exposures; and v) Make recommendations where appropriate, having regard to current legislation and best practice. LIMITATIONS Whilst we have exercised reasonable skill and care in carrying out this work, the report reflects work conditions and practices witnessed by the consultant at the time of the survey. It does not claim to be an exhaustive list of all potential hazards present at the time of the visit. The report and any subsequent recommendations are advisory and are provided to assist the client in complying with their statutory duties. They do not remove the client's legal obligations towards their employees and other persons affected by their undertaking.

9 WORK PROCESSES, PRACTICES & SOURCES OF EXPOSURE The Company specialises in the manufacture of metal items for the retail industry, and undertakes manufacturing in the following areas: Press Shop & Paint Plant Assembly Chill Section Wood Shop (crate manufacture) Sheet metal was perforated, bent and folded into ceiling panel carcases and supporting structures in the perforation & press shops. The carcases and support structures were painted in the paint plant. The acoustic and thermal inserts were manufactured in the pad cutting room and then fixed into the carcases on the assembly lines. The company also manufactured cooling panels in the chill section. The chill section comprised of a fabrication area in the perforation shop and an assembly department in the press shop. The finished products were then packaged in crates manufactured in the wood shop. The main building was spacious with a high pitched-roof ceiling and was divided into two sections. The press shop, paint plant, wood shop, maintenance department and assembly areas were located in the first section, whereas, the perforation shop, auto-bending section, assembly areas and the pad cutting room were located in the second section. All the operatives on site worked 8 hours per shift. The operatives were provided with & wore steel toe-capped boots, gloves and hearing protection. The main sources of noise in the areas surveyed emanated from; (1) Impact noise from the punch presses, perforating machines & nail guns, (2) The use of glue spraying guns (compressed air noise), (3) The use of machine tools (crosscut, band & vertical panel saws etc.) to cut wood & metal, (4) Metal-metal impact noise throughout the site (e.g. auto-bending lines etc.).

10 As Hygienics Consultants, our expertise is in the identification, evaluation and control of physical, chemical, biological and ergonomic health hazards in the workplace. During the initial appraisal, we identified that there was a potential for exposure to; noise, wood dust, mineral oil, glass fibre and solvent vapours in the glue. The only issue addressed by this report was noise exposures. A process flow diagram and site plan is contained in appendix 1. Task evaluation sheets are contained in appendix 2. Noise exposures were evaluated using the methodology contained in appendix 3. Results are contained in appendix 4. These were compared against the relevant legal provisions, which are contained in appendix 5. Health effects of noise are summarised in appendix 6.

11 OBSERVATIONS & DISCUSSION OF RESULTS A total of eleven personnel working throughout the site were chosen to wear dosimeters to measure their personal exposure to noise. The work tasks chosen included; various punch & folding press operations, perforation press operation, tool operation (saws, nail guns etc.). Noise dosimetry carried out over the day shift in the above areas showed that personal exposures to noise ranged between db (A) LEP,d. All eleven personal dosimeter results exceeded the Upper Exposure Action Value of 85 db (A) LEP,d, and eight of the eleven personal dosimeter results exceeded the peak sound pressure of 137 db (C). The highest exposures were obtained from the personnel who operated the Rhodes punch press and those operatives who operated machinery such as; nail guns & cutting saws etc. The majority of the personal dosimeter results were in the range expected from the sound pressure level (SPL) measurements taken, especially when considering the duration and frequency of each task, (SPL L EQ s as measured at ear level following the operator s natural movements whilst undertaking the task - see appendix 3, table 2). However, several of the personal dosimeter results (both L EP,d & Peak) appeared to be higher than expected. It is possible that the exposures were elevated by unforeseeable tasks such as, items slamming on the floor (pallets & crates etc.) or operatives shouting to each other over the shoulder where the dose-badge was positioned. In addition, the shoulder-mounted dose-badger could, in many instances, be closer to the noise source than the operative s ear used to take the L EQ measurement. Personal dosimetry measurements can differ from SPL meter results taken at ear level due to (a) the microphone on a type 1 SPL meter being more precise than the microphone on a personal dose-meter, (b) the personal dose-meter is usually mounted on the operatives shoulder, which is often closer to the noise source than the operatives ear. The main contributor to the noise exposure of the personnel working in the Press shop, Paint plant and assembly areas was the Rhodes punch press. The main contributor to the noise exposure of the personnel working in the Perforator shop was perforator No.3, which was punching heavy gauge steel.

12 Sound pressure level (SLP) measurements (6 40 second L EQ s) taken adjacent to various machines where the operatives worked gave results that ranged between: db (A) whilst operating the Rhodes punch press, db (A) whilst operating the rest of the machines in the Press shop, db (A) whilst operating the Paint plant, db (A) whilst operating the saws & nail gun in the Wood shop, db (A) whilst operating the Perforating machines. The noise exposure of the operatives working in the Press shop was greatly influenced by the noise generated by the Rhodes punch press. For example, the Hounsell H1 press operators were exposed to 85.9 db (A) when the Rhodes press was operational and 81.8 db (A) when the Rhodes press was not operational. Similarly, the PEGA 367 operators were exposed to 86.3 db (A) as a result of their proximity to the Rhodes press. Background noise measurements taken on the painted walkways around the manufacturing areas ranged between db (A). The highest noise levels were recorded on the walkways adjacent to the Rhodes punch press and the Perforating machines. All the measured background noise levels were below 85 db (A), however, it is highly likely that the noise levels on the walkways immediately adjacent to the Rhodes press would exceed 85 db (A). Hence, the section immediately around the Rhodes press is the only area that needs to be designated a hearing protection zone. However, there are numerous machines that generate consistent noise levels that exceed 85 db (A), therefore, signs must be displayed above the noisy machinery & tools with the words Use Ear Protection When Operating This Machine.

13 Appendix 1 PROCESS FLOW DIAGRAM Crate manufacture Manufacture pressing, perforating & forming painting Packing Crating Dispatch

14 Appendix 2 TASK ASSESSMENT SHEETS TASK ASSESSMENT PRESSING, PERFORATING & FORMING Ref no: H416/1 Sheet 1 of 2 Task Description Task Environment How many people carry out this task? What are the hazardous agents associated with this task? What are the significant health effects from the hazardous agents? Is it possible that the levels, duration & frequency of exposure could make a significant contribution to ill health? What specific regulations apply to this work activity? Has a suitable & sufficient risk assessment been carried out? Has the workers exposure to the hazardous agents been monitored with a suitable method where appropriate? Has suitable health surveillance been provided where appropriate? Have appropriate records been retained? Has all reasonably practical measures been taken to prevent exposure? No The Task Pressing, perforating and forming on presses & folding machines. Perforating & Press Shops. Large open areas with high ceilings. Perforating shop segregated from other production areas. 40+ over two 8-hour shifts in Perforating & Press Shops. Noise. Health Risks Noise induced hearing loss. Noise levels are consistently over the Upper Exposure Action Value of 85 db (A) L EP,d. Some tasks, such as using the crosscut & vertical (wall) panel saws gave intermittent noise exposures above 100 db (A). Compliance Noise at Work Regulations 2005 This report represents a suitable & sufficient Risk Assessment. Noise dosimetry and spot measurements using a type 1 Sound pressure level meter. The operatives receive routine audiometric testing, which is carried out by an occupational health nurse. Prevention Personnel working in the Press shop building are unnecessarily exposed to noise. The noisy sections such as, the Rhodes press & wood shop could be moved into the Perforation Shop, which would reduce the exposure to noise of the operatives working elsewhere in the Press shop, Paint plant, assembly lines, Chill assembly, Tool shop

15 etc. TASK ASSESSMENT PRESSING, PERFORATING & FORMING OF CEILING TILES Ref no: H416/1 Sheet 2 of 2 Has all necessary steps been taken to ensure that exposure was adequately controlled? Has suitable and sufficient personal protective equipment (PPE) been provided? Has all reasonable steps been taken to ensure that the existing control measures were properly used & applied? Has all reasonable steps been taken to ensure that the existing control measures were properly maintained? Has all necessary steps been taken to ensure that workers understood the health risks associated with the hazardous agents? Has all necessary steps been taken to ensure that workers understood how to safeguard their own & others health? Has all necessary steps been taken to protect workers from exposures to hazardous agents in an accident, incident or emergency? No NA Control Measures Whilst enclosures had been erected around the perforating machines, they should be extended at the feed and takeoff points to attenuate noise escaping into the immediate vicinity. Certain machines & sections (e.g. Rhodes press & Wood shop) could be shielded to reduce the exposure to noise of the operatives in the immediate vicinity. The operatives were provided with & wore suitable ear defenders. A mixture of moulded plugs and hearing muffs were provided for the operators. 39 out of 40 operatives were seen to be wearing the provided hearing protection. Supervisors ensured that hearing protection was being worn & used properly. Noise shields and hearing protection was repaired or changed as & when necessary. Management Appropriate training was provided. The operatives understood the basic health hazards associated with exposures to noise. Appropriate training was provided. The operatives understood how to safeguard their own & others health.

16 TASK ASSESSMENT PAINT PLANT OPERATION Ref no: H416/2 Sheet 1 of 2 Task Description Task Environment How many people carry out this task? What are the hazardous agents associated with this task? What are the significant health effects from the hazardous agents? Is it possible that the levels, duration & frequency of exposure could make a significant contribution to ill health? What specific regulations apply to this work activity? Has a suitable & sufficient risk assessment been carried out? Has the workers exposure to the hazardous agents been monitored with a suitable method where appropriate? Has suitable health surveillance been provided where appropriate? Have appropriate records been retained? Has all reasonably practical measures been taken to prevent exposure? No No The Task Powder painting of ceiling panels & supporting structures on an automated paint line. The paint plant was located next to the press shop & assembly lines in the Press Shop building. 20+ over two 8-hour shifts. Noise. Health Risks Noise induced hearing loss. Noise levels are in the order of the Lower Exposure Action Value of 80 db (A) L EP,d. Risk of hearing loss is low (~1%). Compliance Noise at Work Regulations 2005 This report represents a suitable & sufficient Risk Assessment. Noise dosimetry and spot measurements using a type 1 Sound pressure level meter. The operatives receive routine audiometric testing, which is carried out by an occupational health nurse. Prevention Personnel working in the Press shop building are unnecessarily exposed to noise. The noisy sections such as, the Rhodes press & wood shop could be moved into the Perforation Shop, which would reduce the exposure to noise of the operatives working elsewhere in the Press shop, Paint plant, assembly lines, Chill assembly, Tool shop etc.

17 TASK ASSESSMENT PAINT PLANT OPERATION Ref no: H416/2 Sheet 2 of 2 Has all necessary steps been taken to ensure that exposure was adequately controlled? Has suitable and sufficient personal protective equipment (PPE) been provided? Has all reasonable steps been taken to ensure that the existing control measures were properly used & applied? Has all reasonable steps been taken to ensure that the existing control measures were properly maintained? Has all necessary steps been taken to ensure that workers understood the health risks associated with the hazardous agents? Has all necessary steps been taken to ensure that workers understood how to safeguard their own & others health? Has all necessary steps been taken to protect workers from exposures to hazardous agents in an accident, incident or emergency? No NA Control Measures Certain machines & sections (e.g. Rhodes press & Wood shop) could be shielded to reduce the exposure to noise of the operatives in the immediate vicinity. The operatives were provided with & wore suitable ear defenders. A mixture of moulded plugs and hearing muffs were provided for the operators. 39 out of 40 operatives were seen to be wearing the provided hearing protection. Supervisors ensured that hearing protection was being worn & used properly. Hearing protection was repaired or changed as & when necessary. Management Appropriate training was provided. The operatives understood the basic health hazards associated with exposures to noise. Appropriate training was provided. The operatives understood how to safeguard their own & others health.

18 TASK ASSESSMENT WOOD SHOP OPERATIVES Ref no: H416/5 Sheet 1 of 2 Task Description Task Environment How many people carry out this task? What are the hazardous agents associated with this task? What are the significant health effects from the hazardous agents? Is it possible that the levels, duration & frequency of exposure could make a significant contribution to ill health? What specific regulations apply to this work activity? Has a suitable & sufficient risk assessment been carried out? Has the workers exposure to the hazardous agents been monitored with a suitable method where appropriate? Has suitable health surveillance been provided where appropriate? Have appropriate records been retained? Has all reasonably practical measures been taken to prevent exposure? The Task Fabrication and assembly of packing crates. Various saws & nail guns were used to cut soft wood to produce packing crates. A low-ceilinged compact area below the mezzanine floor, which was adjacent to the assembly lines in the Press shop building. The wood shop contained various saws & an assembly jig. 3 per 8-hour shift. Noise. Health Risks Noise induced hearing loss. Noise levels are in the fabrication shop are consistently over the Upper Exposure Action Value of 85 db (A) L EP,d. Some tasks, such as using the various saws & nail guns gave intermittent noise exposures above 95 db (A). Compliance Noise at Work Regulations 2005 This report represents a suitable & sufficient Risk Assessment. Noise dosimetry and spot measurements using a type 1 Sound pressure level meter. The operatives receive routine audiometric testing, which is carried out by an occupational health nurse. Prevention No Personnel working adjacent to the wood shop were unnecessarily exposed to noise. The wood shop or noisy machines such as, the vertical panel saw could be moved into another section or isolated, which would reduce the exposure to noise of the operatives working in the wood shop & adjacent assembly areas.

19 TASK ASSESSMENT WOOD SHOP OPERATIVES Ref no: H416/5 Sheet 2 of 2 Has all necessary steps been taken to ensure that exposure was adequately controlled? Has suitable and sufficient personal protective equipment (PPE) been provided? Has all reasonable steps been taken to ensure that the existing control measures were properly used & applied? Has all reasonable steps been taken to ensure that the existing control measures were properly maintained? Has all necessary steps been taken to ensure that workers understood the health risks associated with the hazardous agents? Has all necessary steps been taken to ensure that workers understood how to safeguard their own & others health? Has all necessary steps been taken to protect workers from exposures to hazardous agents in an accident, incident or emergency? No NA Control Measures The wood shop or noisy machines such as, the vertical panel saw etc. could be moved into another section or isolated, which would reduce the exposure to noise of the operatives working in the wood shop & adjacent assembly areas. The operatives were provided with & wore suitable ear defenders. A mixture of moulded plugs and hearing muffs were provided for the operators. All of the operatives were wearing the provided hearing protection. Supervisors ensured that hearing protection was being worn & used properly. Hearing protection was repaired or changed as & when necessary. Management Appropriate training was provided. The operatives understood the basic health hazards associated with exposures to noise. Appropriate training was provided. The operatives understood how to safeguard their own & others health.

20 Appendix 3. METHODOLOGY A walk-through noise survey was carried out using a Cirrus, Model CR 800A Type 1 Precision Integrating Sound Level Meter to identify the operatives exposure to noise and it was recommended that the operatives exposure to noise be assessed for specific tasks using personal dosimeters. Consequently, Cirrus CR 110A personal Noise Dose Badges were used to measure the noise exposure of the chosen personnel. The equipment was calibrated using Cirrus CR 513A & RC 110A Calibrators before and after use. The dose badges were clipped on the operatives shoulders as near to their ears as was practicable. The Dose Badges were worn by a number of employees during the day shift. The results of the personal dosimetry can be found in table 1of appendix 3. Sound pressure Level (SPL) measurements were taken in specific areas around the factory using either a Cirrus, Model CR 800A Precision Integrating Sound Level Meter incorporating an Octave Band Filter Set or a CEL, Model 593 Precision Integrating Sound Level Meter incorporating an Octave Band Filter Set. The instruments were calibrated using a Cirrus CR 513A Calibrator before use. The results, in the form of sample L EQ s (equivalent continuous sound pressure levels with a sample duration that was dependant on the cyclical length of the task being undertaken), are presented in table 2 of appendix 3. Sound pressure levels are given as L EQ measurements. The L EQ is the value of the equivalent continuous sound level over the sampling period (in A-weighted decibels). The L EP,d, is the value of the daily (8-hour) personal noise exposure (in A-weighted decibels). To calculate the L EP,d, not only must the sound level be known but also the duration and frequency of exposures, i.e. the work pattern. Where a person works at one position continuously over the working day without breaks, the L EQ will be equivalent to the L EP,d.

21 If the person takes breaks or carries out other tasks then the L EP,d is the sum of the L EQ measurements weighted for the exposure time. For example if the person carries out two tasks; one with a noise exposure of 80 db (A) for a 4 hour period and a second one of 80 db (A) for a 4 hour period, then the LEP,d is 80 db (A) not 160 db (A). However, if the person carries out two tasks; one with a noise exposure of 85 db (A) for a 7-hour period and one of 80 db (A) for a 1-hour period, then the L EP,d is 84.6 db (A) log = This shows that it is reasonable practice to disregard breaks and assume that the L EQ equals the LEP,d for repetitive tasks where the person works predominantly at that task in one area, and there are not other more intense peripatetic noise exposures. Daily personal exposure to noise (L EP,d ) represents average exposures to noise over an 8-hour shift. Since the personnel do not always work in the same area/on the same machines for the whole of the shift, the as-measured L EQ s represent typical exposures that can be expected from working on the particular machine(s) that they were operating at the time of the survey. In reality, operator exposures will vary tremendously from day to day, from morning to afternoon etc, and will clearly be dependant on the particular tasks undertaken, the noise generated by the machines they are working on, and the noise generated by adjacent machines.

22 SAMPLE RESULTS & SITE PLAN Appendix 4. LOCATION Table 1 Results of Personal Dosimetry Sampling Times L EQ L PEAK Hours Worked db (A) db (C) hrs db (A) 8 th August 2006 Press Shop A (Rhodes punch press, bracket production) 09:37 15: B (Hook making machine) 09:42 15: C (PEGA 367 CNC machine) 09:47 13: D (SMT Press No.2) 09:50 13: E (Cuboid D Press) 09:54 15: Perforator & Auto-bending Room F (Wemo No.2) 10:02 13: G (Perforator No.3) H (Perforator No.2) 10:11 15: Wood Shop I (jig operation, nail gun etc.) 10:17 13: Pad Shop J (Striebig wall panel saw) 10:25 14: Chill Fabrication Shop K (preparation area for Chill Section) 14:22 15: KEY L EQ L EP,d is the equivalent continuous sound level, which would deliver the same sound energy as the actual A-weighted fluctuating sound measured in the same time period. ( A weighted i.e. a standard weighting of the audible frequencies designed to reflect the response of the human ear to noise) is the value of the daily (8-hour) personal noise exposure (in A-weighted decibels) [numbers in blue signify exposures between the Lower & Upper Exposure Action Values, whilst numbers in red signify exposures above the Upper Exposure Action Value]. L EP,d

23 L PEAK Sample Duration (secs) The maximum value reached by the sound pressure at any instant during a measurement period (in db with C frequency weighting) Table 2 Results of spot check sound pressure level measurements POSITION OF TEST Daily Duration (mins) L PEAK db (C) L EQ db (A) Press Shop 30 Rhodes bracket punch press [ ] weighing scales (A) Rhodes bracket punch press [ ] steel cart end (A) Hook making machine [ ] * (B) Auto turret 1 (Pega 367) [ ] * Light punching cutting lines (C) Auto turret 1 (Pega 367) [ ] * Light punching cutting holes (C) Auto turret 2 (Pega 367) [ ] (D) At Auto turret 2, only Rhodes punch press operational (D) SMT 2 [ ] Feed - 6 pieces punched (E) SMT 2 [ ] Take off - 6 pieces punched (E) SMT 1 [ ] Feed (F) Hounsell H1 [ ] Feed * - 3 pieces punched (G) Hounsell H1 [ ] Feed - Rhodes press not operational (G) Hounsell H1 [ ]Take off - Rhodes press not operational (G) Cuboid D Metal Folder H10 [ ] (H) Background inside maintenance shop with Rhodes Press operating (1) Background between Mega Panel Assembly and Rhodes Punch Press (2) Paint Line 30 Loading point [ ] opposite H10 (3) Loading point [ ] opposite SMT2 (4) Background on walkway between paint line and SMT 2 (5) Woodworking Shop 60 Crate manufacture on jig [ ] (I) Nailing crate [ ] (I) Cross cut saw [ ] (J) Vertical panel (wall) saw[ ] (K) [ ] = Operator position at ear level * = Background noise from Rhodes press (A W) = Machine location on plan (1 2) = Background location on plan

24 Appendix 5. Noise at Work Regulations 2005 The Control of Noise at Work Regulations 2005 will come into force on the 6th April (Regulation 4) Exposure Limit Values & Action Values: The Lower Exposure Action Values are; a daily or weekly personal noise exposure of 80 db (A-weighted) & a peak sound pressure of 135 db (Cweighted), The Upper Exposure Action Values are; a daily or weekly personal noise exposure of 85 db (A-weighted) & a peak sound pressure of 137 db (Cweighted), The Exposure Limit Values are; a daily or weekly personal noise exposure of 87 db (A-weighted) & a peak sound pressure of 140 db (Cweighted). Where the exposure of an employee to noise varies markedly from day to day, an employer may use weekly personal noise exposure in place of daily personal noise exposure for the purposes of compliance with the regulations. In applying the Exposure Limit Values, account can be taken of the protection given to the employee by any personal hearing protectors provided by the employer in accordance with regulation 7(2). In summary: The Exposure Action Values are the levels of exposure to noise at which the employer is required to take certain actions (see regulations 5, 6, 7, 9 & 10). The Exposure Limit Values are the levels of noise above which an employee may not be exposed (see regulation 6 (4)).

25 (Regulation 5) Assessment of the risk to health & safety created by exposure to noise at the workplace The regulations require that where any employees are likely to be exposed to noise at or above a daily or weekly noise exposure level of 80 db (A), or a peak sound pressure level of 135 db(c) the employer shall carry out a risk assessment to identify the measures which need to be taken to meet the requirements of the Regulations. In conducting the risk assessment, the employer must assess the levels of noise to which workers are exposed. The risk assessment must include consideration of: (a) (b) (c) (d) (e) (f) (g) (h) (i) the level, type and duration of exposure, including any exposure to impulse noise; the effects of exposure to noise on employees or groups of employees whose health are at particular risk from such exposure; effects of exposure to noise on the health and safety of employees resulting from the interaction between noise and the use of ototoxic substances at work, or between noise and vibration; any indirect effects on the health and safety of employees resulting from the interaction between noise and audible warning signals or other sounds that need to be audible in order to reduce risk at work; any information provided by the manufacturers of work equipment; the availability of alternative equipment designed to reduce the emission of noise; any extension of exposure to noise at the workplace beyond normal working hours, including exposure in rest facilities supervised by the employer; appropriate information obtained following health surveillance, including, where possible, published information; and the availability of personal hearing protectors with adequate attenuation characteristics. The employer must record the significant findings of the risk assessment and the measures that he has taken to meet the requirements of the regulations. The risk assessment must be reviewed if there is reason to suspect that the risk assessment is no longer valid; or there has been a significant change in the work to which the assessment relates, and at regular intervals.

26 (Regulation 6) Elimination or control of exposure to noise at the workplace The employer shall ensure that risk from the exposure of his employees to noise is either eliminated at source or, where this is not reasonably practicable, reduced to as low a level as is reasonably practicable. Where any employee is likely to be exposed to noise at or above a daily or weekly noise exposure level of 85 db (A), or a peak sound pressure level of 137 db(c), the employer must reduce exposure by establishing and implementing a programme of organisational and technical measures, excluding the provision of personal hearing protectors, which is appropriate to the activity and consistent with the risk assessment. These measures must include a consideration of; (1) other working methods, which eliminate or reduce exposure to noise; (2) choice of appropriate work equipment emitting the least possible noise, taking account of the work to be carried out; (3) the design and layout of workplaces, work stations and rest facilities; (4) suitable and sufficient information and training for employees, such that work equipment may be used correctly, in order to minimise their exposure to noise; (5) reduction of noise by technical means including in the case of airborne noise the use of shields, enclosures, and sound-absorbent coverings; and in the case of structure-borne noise by damping and isolation; (6) appropriate maintenance programmes for work equipment, the workplace and workplace systems; (7) limitation of the duration and intensity of exposure to noise; and (8) appropriate work schedules with adequate rest periods. Every employer must ensure that his employees are not exposed to noise above an Exposure Limit Value {daily or weekly noise exposure level of 87 db (A) or a peak sound pressure level of 140 db(c)}. If an exposure limit value is exceeded the employer must take action to reduce exposure to noise to below the limit value; identify the reason for that limit being exceeded; and modify the organisational and technical measures to prevent it being exceeded again. The employer must adapt any measure taken in compliance with the requirements of this regulation to take account of any employee belonging to a particularly sensitive risk group.

27 (Regulation 7) Hearing Protection Where any employees are exposed to noise at or above a Lower Exposure Action Value {daily or weekly noise exposure level of 80 db (A) or a peak sound pressure level of 135 db(c)}, the employer shall make personal hearing protectors available upon request to any employee who is so exposed. If an employer is unable by other means to reduce the levels of noise to which an employee is likely to be exposed to below an Upper Exposure Action Value {daily or weekly noise exposure level of 85 db (A) or a peak sound pressure level of 137 db(c)}, then the employer shall provide personal hearing protectors to any employee who is so exposed. If the risk assessment indicates that in any area of the workplace under the control of the employer, an employee is likely to be exposed to noise at or above an Upper Exposure Action Value for any reason, the employer shall ensure that the area is designated a Hearing Protection Zone. The Hearing Protection Zone must be identified as a Hearing Protection Zone and a sign stating, ear protection must be worn. must be displayed. The employer must ensure that no person enters the area unless wearing personal hearing protectors. Access to the area must be restricted where this is technically feasible and the risk of exposure justifies it. Any personal hearing protectors provided by the employer must eliminate or reduce the risk to as low a level as is reasonably practicable; and comply with the provisions of the Personal Protective Equipment at Work Regulations (Regulation 8) Maintenance and use of equipment The employer must make every effort to ensure that anything provided by him in compliance with his duties under these Regulations to or for the benefit of an employee, is fully and properly used; maintained in an efficient state, in efficient working order and in good repair. Each employee must make full and proper use of personal hearing protectors provided to him by his employer, and of any other control measures provided by his employer, and if he discovers any defect in any personal hearing protectors or other control measures, must report it to his employer as soon as is practicable.

28 (Regulation 9) Health Surveillance If the risk assessment indicates that there is a risk to the health of his employees who are, or are liable to be exposed to noise, the employer must ensure that these employees are placed under suitable health surveillance (such as audiometric testing). The employer must ensure that the records of any health surveillance undertaken are kept. (Regulation 10) Information, instruction and training Where employees are exposed to noise, which is likely to be at or above a Lower Exposure Action Value {80 db (A) LEP,d or 135 db(c)}, the employer must provide those employees and their representatives with suitable and sufficient information, instruction and training which must include (i) (ii) (iii) (iv) (v) (vi) (vii) (viii) the nature of risks from exposure to noise; the organisational and technical measures taken; the exposure limit values and upper and lower exposure action values; the significant findings of the risk assessment, including any measurements taken, with an explanation of those findings; the availability and provision of personal hearing protectors and their correct use; why and how to detect and report signs of hearing damage; the entitlement to health surveillance and its purposes; and safe working practices to minimise exposure to noise.

29 Appendix 6. HEALTH EFFECTS OF HAZARDOUS AGENTS Noise-induced hearing loss Noise induced hearing Loss occurs gradually, and depends directly on the degree of noise exposure. The main attribute of noise determining hearing loss is sound-pressure level, although frequency is also important. Permanent hearing loss is generally first noticeable around 4kHz - high-pitched speech, before it spreads to other frequencies (3-6kHz). In most cases, both ears are equally affected. The change in the hearing threshold level is known as Hearing Threshold Loss (HTL), or permanent threshold shift. Various factors may adversely affect hearing, such as increasing age, external injury, blast injury, severe electric shock, pressure changes, obstructions, and infections. Exposure to high levels of chemicals may also cause permanent hearing loss. Exposure to high levels of noise may cause other disorders, which affect the ability to work: Tinnitus: this is a continual ringing in the ear, causing disruption to sleep and affecting speech. Dizziness/loss of balance: it may be particularly dangerous to participate in certain occupations, such as work on or near potentially-hazardous machines, work at heights, work in moving environments (such as at sea), diving, etc. Barometric problems: this may result in inability to work in compressed air, or in certain industries, such as flying or diving. Ear discharge: this usually occurs due to a bacterial or fungal infection and may affect the ability to use hearing protectors or telephones.

30 Appendix 7. Third Octave Frequency Analysis Graphs 1) The noise produced by the Rhodes Punch Press. db L-/ Band (Hz) L EQ (db) k25 Band (Hz) k 12.5k 16 k 20 k A L EQ (db) k 3k15 5k 8k 12k5 20k Hz

31 2) The noise produced by manufacturing a crate on the Jig in the Wood Shop. db L-/ Band (Hz) L EQ (db) Band (Hz) k 12.5k 16 k 20 k A L EQ (db) k25 2k 3k15 5k 8k 12k5 20k Hz

32 3) The noise produced by the Cross cut saw in the Chill Fabrication Section. db L-/ Band (Hz) L EQ (db) Band (Hz) k 12.5k 16 k 20 k A L EQ (db) k25 2k 3k15 5k 8k 12k5 20k Hz

33 4) The noise produced by the Vertical panel saw in the Pad Shop. db L-/ Band (Hz) L EQ (db) Band (Hz) k 12.5k 16 k 20 k A L EQ (db) k25 2k 3k15 5k 8k 12k5 20k Hz