Excessive noise exposure in manufacturing is a serious health and safety risk. In these environments, workers are often exposed to high levels of noise from machinery, tools, and production processes. Over time, this exposure can lead to permanent hearing loss, reduced communication, and increased stress, impacting both worker health and operational efficiency.
In this post, we’ll explore the risks associated with occupational noise exposure in manufacturing, how to monitor it effectively, and what strategies can help reduce it.
Why Noise Exposure Matters
Noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) is one of the most common—and preventable—occupational illnesses. It happens gradually, which means many workers don’t notice until damage is already done. In Canada, employers are legally obligated under provincial OHS regulations and federal guidelines (like the Canadian Occupational Health and Safety Regulations [COHSR]) to assess and control hazardous noise levels in the workplace.
According to the Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety (CCOHS) and ACGIH® (American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists):
- The Threshold Limit Value (TLV®) for noise exposure is 85 dBA over an 8-hour time-weighted average (TWA)
- For every 3 dB increase, the allowable exposure time is cut in half
- (CCOHS, 2023; ACGIH TLVs® and BEIs®)
This means employers must take action to control noise once exposures exceed these limits.
Long-term risks include:
- Permanent hearing damage or loss
- Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)
- Communication barriers and reduced situational awareness
- Increased accident risk due to inability to hear alarms or instructions
Common Sources of Noise in Manufacturing
- CNC machines
- Pneumatic tools
- Metal stamping and pressing
- Fans and ventilation systems
- Forklifts and material handling equipment
- High-speed conveyors or packaging lines
Even short-term tasks like grinding or cutting can generate hazardous sound levels.
How to Monitor Noise Exposure
Effective noise monitoring is the first step in understanding and managing the risk. Depending on the layout of your facility and the tasks performed, you may need a combination of:
- Area Monitoring
Using a sound level meter, this method helps map out noise levels in different zones of a facility. It’s useful for identifying general problem areas or background noise levels.
- Personal Noise Dosimetry
This involves equipping workers with dosimeters to measure their real-time exposure throughout a shift. It’s the gold standard for compliance and is especially useful when workers move between tasks or locations.
- Octave Band Analysis
This more detailed assessment breaks down the frequency of noise sources to help with selecting appropriate controls (like engineering barriers or specialized hearing protection).
What the Numbers Mean
Here’s a basic guide to exposure thresholds based on a 3 dB exchange rate (per CCOHS and ACGIH):
Exposure to impulse noise above 140 dBC or continuous noise above 115 dBA requires immediate controls, even with hearing protection.
(Sources: CCOHS; COHSR, Part VII, Section 7.4)
Mitigation Strategies
Once you’ve identified noise exposure in manufacturing risks, it’s time to implement controls using the hierarchy of controls:
🔧 1. Engineering Controls
- Enclose noisy equipment or install sound-dampening barriers
- Use quieter tools or machinery
- Isolate noise sources from workstations
- Install absorptive materials (acoustic panels, ceiling tiles, curtains)
🧱 2. Administrative Controls
- Rotate workers to limit exposure time
- Schedule noisy tasks during off-peak hours
- Maintain equipment to prevent unnecessary noise
🦻 3. Hearing Protection Equipment (PPE)
- Provide CSA-approved hearing protection (earplugs or earmuffs)
- Ensure proper fit and worker training
- Implement a Hearing Conservation Program if noise exceeds thresholds
When to Bring in an Industrial Hygienist
If you’re unsure whether your facility meets regulatory requirements—or you’re getting complaints from workers — it’s time to consult an industrial hygienist.
We can:
- Conduct detailed noise assessments
- Recommend appropriate controls
- Develop or review your Hearing Conservation Program
- Help ensure you remain compliant with local OHS regulations
Final Thoughts
Noise exposure in manufacturing is a manageable risk—but only if you take it seriously. Regular monitoring, proper controls, and a proactive approach can help you protect workers’ hearing, stay compliant, and improve overall workplace safety.
Reach out to our Team Today!
How Can We Help You?
Contact us at JADA Solutions (HSE) Inc. to speak with one of our professionals!
