NOISE ASSESSMENT SERVICE

WHAT IS A NOISE ASSESSMENT?

Measures and evaluates the impact of sound, noise, and vibration levels within environments or equipment prone to produce noise pollution. This helps to protect the well-being and safety of nearby communities and the environment. A professional acoustical testing device is used to determine the measurements.

REASONS TO OBTAIN A NOISE ASSESSMENT SERVICE:

• 1. Health and Safety Protection

  The primary reason to conduct a noise assessment is to prevent Noise-Induced Hearing Loss (NIHL), which is permanent and irreversible.

  • Identify Hazard Zones: Pinpoint specific areas or machinery where sound levels are dangerous.

  • Beyond Hearing: Excessive noise is linked to physiological stress, fatigue, concentration loss, and even cardiovascular issues like atrial fibrillation.

  • Communication Safety: Assessments identify if noise levels prevent hearing critical warnings, alarms, or instructions.

  2. Legal and Regulatory Compliance

  Many jurisdictions have strict legal requirements for monitoring noise.

  • OSHA Standards: OSHA mandates noise monitoring when levels exceed an 8-hour time-weighted average of 85 decibels.

  • Avoid Penalties: Documented surveys help companies avoid costly citations and fines during inspections.

  • Zoning and Environment: Environmental assessments are often required for new developments to evaluate their acoustic impact on the surrounding community and wildlife.

  3. Effective Risk Management

  Assessments provide the data necessary to implement targeted solutions rather than guesswork.

  • PPE Selection: Accurate frequency analysis ensures the correct type of hearing protection—neither under-protecting nor over-protecting.

  • Control Measures: Results help determine where engineering controls (like soundproofing) or administrative changes (like shift rotation) are needed.

  • Liability Reduction: Maintaining records can protect a business from future workers' compensation claims or insurance disputes.

  4. Operational Improvements

  • Increased Productivity: Reducing noise-related stress and fatigue often leads to better focus and job performance.

  • Maintenance Indicators: Rising noise levels can signal that machinery is worn out or requires preventative maintenance.

  • Enhanced Morale: Demonstrating a commitment to employee wellbeing can improve staff retention and company reputation.

• Common Triggers for an Assessment

  You should consider obtaining a noise assessment if:

  • Employees must shout to be heard from an arm's length away.

  • You are installing new machinery or changing work processes.

  • Employees report ringing or humming in their ears (tinnitus).

  • You are responding to community noise complaints.

WHO AN INFRARED SCAN IS FOR:

• Owners

• Buyers

• Sellers

• Tenants

• Brokers

• Realtors

• Agents

• Banks

• Property Managers

• Local, State, and Federal Governments