Hi there i have just completed 2 noises assesssments by the use of a type 2 noise monitor (fully calibrated) my first assessment read 91db for a maximum of 40 minutes over the average working day on one item of work equipment. Above the upper exposure limit the second reading was 79-82 db for a maximum of 2 hours on the other equipment . could anybody advise further many thanks

David - what sort of advice are you after? I am having pc problems so can't open an excel spreadsheet at the moment but suggest that 91 dB(A) for 40 minutes isn't above the upper exposure action value. I reckon that an individual could be exposed to 91 dB(A) for 2 hours before reaching the UEAV. Mind it's llate (for me) and I will probably regret this post in the cold light of day.

Well it still comes out at 82 dB(A) even without the wine... Just above the Lower Exposure Action Value so you should try to reduce exposure further. Personally I would not want to expose myself to 91 dB(A) even for just 40 minutes without some form of protection.

David With the greatest respect, I have to ask if you feel yourself to be competent to carry out a noise assessment? The reason I ask is that: 1. 91 dB(A) for 40 minutes does not exceed the UEAV as you suggested. If you use the noise calc you will see that 91 dB(A) for 2 hours would reach the UEAV. I used the simple 3 dB(A) 1/2 or double rule, last night, which worked. 2. Your second measurement was 79 - 82 dB(A). There is a considerable diffrence between the 2. This is not an LEq level, which would either be 79 or 82 or whatever, not a 'range' Regardless of whether you have a calibrated type 2 noise meter or not, please, for your sake and the sake of the people that you are seeking to protect, and your employer, make sure that you are comfortable with your understanding of noise, noise measurements, noise protection etc, otherwise I fear your efforts may be in vain, may not protect, or you may over protect or spend money your don't need to and ultimately won't stand up to scrutiny.