How do we know if we have a noisy workplace?
As an employer you will be responsible for any and all WHS duties under the WHS Act. Spreading the responsibilities out with a HR manager and a WHS manager is a good way to make sure your WHS program is managed appropriately and the adequate safety training is provided.
Active Tip: If you need to raise your voice over machinery or background sound to have a conversation then this could be hazardous noise and it is worthwhile to get a noise assessment completed.
We only know if we have a noisy workplace if we test. This will include assessing exposure during work tasks, or any other hazardous noise the staff may endure on their day to day work.
Who can do a noise survey?
By definition of the Safe Work Australia Guidelines, a competent person is someone with the correct credentials who will test in accordance with the AS/NZS 1269.1:2005: Occupational noise management – Measurement and assessment of noise emission and exposure. An app on a mobile phone may be useful for determining the areas of concern to be surveyed, but the readings themselves will not be counted in court.
The assessor must understand the basic physics of sound, the correct usage and limitations of sound-measuring equipment, how to record results and explain them appropriately to the workplace staff, mechanisms of hearing and hearing protectors as well as many other facets.
The more complicated the assessment, the more competent the assessor has to be.
Our WHS specialists are also adept in WHS system creation and implementation, manual handling and hazardous chemicals training, ergonomics and many other options like WHS Risk Management Training. Speak to an Active OHS staff member to find out more.
To help with any of your noise-related questions or WHS needs in general, please do not hesitate to contact Active OHS on 02 9821 3321 or email us at info@activeohs.com.au
