Sound Exposure Levels in Australia
Sound exposure levels in Australia are regulated by the National Occupational Health and Safety Commission (NOHSC). The NOHSC has set workplace exposure standards for noise, which set limits on the amount of noise that workers are allowed to be exposed to.
The workplace exposure standards for noise are as follows:
- Time-weighted average (TWA): The TWA is the average noise level over an eight-hour period. The TWA for noise must not exceed 85 decibels (dB).
- Peak noise level: The peak noise level is the highest noise level that a worker is exposed to during an eight-hour period. The peak noise level must not exceed 140 dB.
If noise levels in the workplace exceed the workplace exposure standards, employers are required to take steps to reduce noise exposure, such as providing hearing protection or redesigning work areas.
Noise exposure levels in the community can also be a problem. The Australian Government has set community noise guidelines, which set limits on the amount of noise that people are allowed to be exposed to in different areas.
The community noise guidelines for noise are as follows:
- Residential areas: The noise level must not exceed 55 dB during the day and 45 dB at night.
- Commercial areas: The noise level must not exceed 70 dB during the day and 60 dB at night.
- Industrial areas: The noise level must not exceed 85 dB during the day and 75 dB at night.
If noise levels in the community exceed the community noise guidelines, local governments may take steps to reduce noise exposure, such as enforcing noise regulations or installing noise barriers.
By following the workplace exposure standards and community noise guidelines, we can help to protect people from the negative health effects of loud noise.
Here are some additional tips for reducing sound exposure in Australia:
- Avoid loud noise: If possible, avoid exposure to loud noise. If you must be exposed to loud noise, wear ear protection.
- Take breaks: If you are exposed to loud noise, take breaks every 15-30 minutes to allow your ears to rest.
- Wear ear protection: Ear protection can help to reduce the amount of noise that you are exposed to. There are a variety of ear protection options available, including earplugs and earmuffs.
- Ventilate your home: If you live in a noisy area, ventilating your home can help to reduce the amount of noise that you are exposed to.
- Plant trees: Planting trees around your home can help to absorb noise.
- Talk to your neighbors: If your neighbors are making a lot of noise, talk to them about it. They may not be aware of how loud they are being.
By following these tips, you can help to protect yourself from the harmful effects of sound exposure.