{"id":66826,"date":"2022-10-05T10:02:40","date_gmt":"2022-10-05T10:02:40","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/trainanddevelop.ca\/how-to-reduce-noise-hazards-in-the-workplace\/"},"modified":"2026-04-29T07:04:36","modified_gmt":"2026-04-29T07:04:36","slug":"how-to-reduce-noise-hazards-in-the-workplace","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/trainanddevelop.ca\/fr\/blog\/how-to-reduce-noise-hazards-in-the-workplace\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Reduce Noise Hazards in the Workplace"},"content":{"rendered":"

\"Top<\/a><\/p>\n

When you think of workplace-related dangers, loud noises probably aren\u2019t at the top of the list. However, noise hazards are definitely worth taking seriously; neglecting to do so can have some serious consequences for both individuals and companies. Long-term exposure to noise hazards can cause a wide range of health issues, some of which are permanent.<\/p>\n

From a company\u2019s perspective, unsafe workplaces contribute to low satisfaction, high turnover rates, complacency among employees<\/a>, and even increased worker\u2019s compensation settlements stemming from workplace-related injuries. Fortunately, a combination of a robust safety culture<\/a> and practical solutions can significantly reduce noise hazards \u2013 and their consequences \u2013 for any workplace.<\/p>\n

In this Article:<\/h2>\n
    \n
  1. The Definition of a \u201cNoise Hazard\u201d<\/a><\/li>\n
  2. Common Sources of Noise Hazards<\/a><\/li>\n
  3. The Dangers of Noise Hazards in the Workplace<\/a><\/li>\n
  4. Practical Steps to Reduce Noise Hazards<\/a><\/li>\n
  5. How Could Your Workplace Reduce Noise Hazards?<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

    <\/a>The Definition of a \u201cNoise Hazard\u201d<\/h2>\n

    According to Canada Occupational Health and Safety Regulations<\/a>, a workplace should not expose employees to sound levels in excess of 84 decibels for any period of time that\u2019s long enough to potentially damage their hearing. In more exact terms, an employee\u2019s noise exposure level can\u2019t be more than 84 decibels (on average) during 16 hours of a 24-hour period. If this limit is exceeded, it\u2019s up to the employer to take any necessary steps to protect employees\u2019 hearing.<\/p>\n

    There are several different ways of accurately measuring noise levels, but it can also be \u201cguesstimated\u201d pretty easily. If two people are standing three feet apart and have to raise their voices in order to be heard, the ambient noise level is likely too high. Whenever this happens without the proper safeguards being in place, safety measures should be implemented. Whether that be hearing protection, noise guarding, or isolating systems.<\/p>\n

    \"Woman<\/a><\/p>\n

    <\/a>Common Sources of Noise Hazards<\/h2>\n

    If you\u2019re talking about noisy workplaces, one of the most obvious examples would be construction sites. There you can find anything from pneumatic drills to jackhammers to sandblasters being used \u2013 and they\u2019re all extremely loud.<\/p>\n

    That being said, plenty of other workplaces have excessive levels of noise<\/a>. Have you ever been to a bar that was so loud you couldn\u2019t even hear yourself think? Now imagine working a 10-hour shift in that environment! Noise hazards can be found at landscaping jobs, carpentry shops, rock concerts, busy restaurant kitchens, and countless other workplaces.<\/p>\n

    <\/a>The Dangers of Noise Hazards in the Workplace<\/h2>\n

    As previously mentioned, noise hazards are no joke. They can result in serious health consequences, which may or may not end up being permanent. Each person will be affected differently, but here are some of the health issues that can stem from prolonged exposure to a noise hazard:<\/p>\n