


The final two sections provide references used to produce this chapter and resources for obtaining additional information. The fifth section provides a more detailed description of noise hazard abatement and control, including engineering and administrative controls, hearing protection, hearing conservation programs (HCPs), cost comparisons between noise hazard abatement options, and case studies. The fourth section offers investigative guidelines (including methods for preparing for an investigation) and outlines a strategy for conducting noise evaluations. The third section describes worksite noise evaluations, including noise measurement equipment, noise evaluation procedures, and noise sampling procedures. Following this introduction, the second section provides background information about noise and noise regulations and an overview of available noise controls. The chapter is divided into seven main sections. The content is based on currently available research publications, OSHA standards, and consensus standards. This chapter provides technical information and guidance to help Compliance Safety and Health Officers (CSHOs) evaluate noise hazards in the workplace. Exposure to high levels of noise may cause hearing loss, create physical and psychological stress, reduce productivity, interfere with communication, and contribute to accidents and injuries. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC)/National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) estimates that 22 million workers in the United States are exposed to hazardous noise. Hazardous noise is one of the most common occupational hazards in American workplaces. The mention of trade names, commercial products, or organizations does not imply endorsement by OSHA or the U.S. Associations, Education, and ConferencesĪppendix B – Sample Equations and CalculationsĪppendix D – Combined Exposure to Noise and Ototoxic SubstancesĪppendix E – Historical Analysis of Affected Industries and JobsĪppendix G – Evaluating Noise Exposure of Workers Wearing Sound-Generating HeadsetsĪppendix H – Economic Feasibility Analysis of Noise Engineering ControlsĪppendix J – Three Ways to Jump-Start a Noise-Control Program.Cost of Hearing Loss/Cost of Hearing Conservation Programs.Engineering Controls and Noise - Control Programs.Sound Levels of Equipment, Occupations, and Activities.Comprehensive Review - Noise, Hearing Loss, Noise Control.Engineering Controls and Economic Feasibility.Searching Online for Industry Noise Statistics.Noise Evaluation Instrument Care and Calibration.Personal Protective Equipment (Hearing Protection).Administrative and Work Practice Controls.Noise-Control Engineering - Concepts and Options.Brief History of Occupational Noise Standards.Ototoxicity and Synergistic Effects with Noise.Effects of Excessive Occupational Noise Exposure.Industrial Robots and Robot System SafetyĮxcavations: Hazard Recognition in Trenching and ShoringĬontrolling Lead Exposures in the Construction Industry: Engineering and Work Practice Controls Oil Well Derrick Stability: Guywire Anchor Systems Legionnaire's Disease, see OSHA's Safety and Health Topics Page for updated information.Ĭontrolling Exposure to Hazardous Drugs, see OSHA's Safety and Health Topics Page for updated information. Polymer Matrix Materials: Advanced Composites Technical Equipment: On-site Measurements
