Posted By holmezy Hello All, one of my manufacturing sites has an excessive noise problem whilst certain machines are running. These machines run intermittently during the day, the rest of the time noise levels are acceptable. Noise produced by these 2 machines can be reduced by changing the motors and a degree of maintenance. I have informed the works manager that all employees need to wear hearing protection when in this area and when the 2 machines in question are running. If this is going to be difficult to manage then hearing protection should be worn at all times. There are also forklift trucks in operation. Noise levels will be re assessed when repairs etc are done. Resiting the machines is not an option, nor is accoustic barriers or enclosures due to the nature of the work and limitations in space, cost etc. The works manager has indicated that the required apf hearing protection would make the workers "deaf" to other hazards, ie fork truck etc and make communication difficult if not impossible. (I also think there is a degree of not wanting to do it as well) He has asked me if there are any warning lights that are triggered by excessive noise ie above 85DB. I dont see this as an answer to the problem, the reason being that if we cant get people to wear them when the machines are running and take them off when the machines stop, then a red flashing light isnt going to persuade them to comply. Any suggestions?

Posted By holmezy Yes, had full noise survey, dosimeters and octave band analysis done to confirm what we already knew....but now need to fix the prob short term whilst we maintain machines before re checking. I personally feel that even with the enginnering maintenance the area will still produce excessive noise sometimes, but it may bring the TWA down to an acceptable level.