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Noise Levels / Hearing Protection for Telehandler Operators
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Posted By Paul A. Swift
Can anybody assist me with some advice / guidance?
We hire Telehandlers for use in construction site environments (4 Tonne capacity).
On the side of the Telehandler is a warning sign and an indicated noise level of 106dB.
When I look at the operators manual, that states that the expected noise level in the cab is only 73dB.
In addition, the Hire Company have provided their own data saying that the noise level from measurements taken by them is 94dB.
So, my first question is, which figure should I work off, as there are obviously large discrepancies between them.
From the amount of time that they are used on site, taking any figure other than the 73dB Figure means that our operators will need to wear hearing protection.
Having consulted our employees on this issue, they are concerned about increased risks from not being able to hear audible / verbal warnings if they inadvertently drive too close to objects / hazards / personnel. We always have a banksman / signaller when they are in operation, but the operators do not feel comfortable relying purely on visual signals.
To quote them, "I would rather be deaf than ran over"
So, my second question is, does anyone else out there have experience of this issue and do their operators now wear hearing protection?
If they do, I would be interested in the ratings of the hearing protection used and any issues / solutions that they have come across
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Rank: Guest
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Posted By Renny Thomson
You need better information to make a judgement. The 106dB sound level on the machine is probably the level at the machine, not in the insulated cab. The manufacturer's in-cab level of 73dB may have been measured in ideal situations with a new vehicle with all windows/doors closed. If this is how the vehicle operates, it my be acceptable to use this figure. The hire company's measured level may be more realistic if it was measured at the operator's ear in typical situations.
However, none of these give you the dose that the operator will be exposed to. This is determined not only by the sound level, but also the time duration of the exposure and exposure to other noise sources through the day.
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Rank: Guest
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Posted By Paul A. Swift
Thanks for the reply.
Site have indicated that it will be in continuous use for 6 hours.
As you say, If I take the Hire Company data as being the most realistic data then the operator needs protection. We are looking at getting additional trained operators to reduce individual exposure and providing hearing protection.
My concern is whether or not our employees concerns are justified relating to not being able to audible / verbal warnings / plant approaching them etc.
Any thoughts / suggestions on this most welcome.
Regards.
Paul
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Rank: Guest
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Posted By David Whaley
Paul,
There probably isn't a simple answer. The operator will be exposed for the duration he is in the cab. Those working outside will be exposed, the level of exposure will depend on how close to the machine and the level of noise. If it as high as indicated over 100dB you are likely to be exceeding the exposure limits.
With the correct level of protection communication may not be an issue. But if it is consider radio communication. I was recently working with a mobile crane operator and a banksman. They did not rely on verbal communication at all, and they were working to very small tolerances.
I would advise the noise levels be measured, a competent person would then be able to advise on the protection required.
I guess this not what you wanted to be told, but unless someone has specific knowledge of the machine it will be extremely difficult to give advice.
Hope this helps.
David
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Rank: Guest
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Posted By Paul A. Swift
David,
Thanks for your reply.
I think you are just confirming what I already believed to be the case.
I think what was putting doubt in my mind was the fact that from experience when I have gone around construction sites in the past, I don't recall seeing telehandler operators wearing hearing protection - normally only worn by drivers operating concrete breakers etc.
Perhaps we have picked an excessively noisy telehandler or that they are not using the equipment so long or worse, are oblivious of the noise levels.
Regards.
Paul
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