4 Practical Ways To Reduce Noise in Your Workplace
Most industries are plagued by noise, from noisy construction sites to factories and restaurant kitchens. Noise exposure is a severe issue in the workplace. According to a US study, approximately 22 million US workers are exposed to occupational noise with potential side effects, including increased illness, reduced productivity, lower job satisfaction, and stress. A noisy workplace can be irritating, and the few tips below can help reduce it and create an ideal work environment.
1. Control the number of employees who are exposed to loud noises
Consider how many employees are necessary to do a noisy task and find out if some of them can be performed in certain periods when fewer individuals are in the workplace. This way, you can reduce the number of people directly affected by the overly loud environment. You could also relocate loud equipment to a space with fewer workers. According to OSHA, increasing the distance between the noise source and the employee reduces noise by 6 dB while working in an open area.
2. When modernizing machinery, prioritize noise reduction
Older gear may not always comply with current noise-reduction requirements. Even in such cases, you can frequently make changes to minimize the overall loudness when the equipment is in use. Consider whether you can improve the current machine by adding noise barriers. Additionally, consider versions that have been proven safer and quieter when replacing machinery. Implementing a low-noise strategy at your office may benefit workforce health in the long run. The hydraulic pump mechanism, for instance, can be a source of noise for hydraulic passenger lifts, so it makes sense to use hydraulic lifts as they produce less noise.
3. Scheduled proper equipment maintenance
Machines deteriorate with time and use. And according to Graphic Products, the most cost-effective engineering control to prevent industrial noise dangers is to guarantee that all machinery is properly maintained. For instance, machines with metal-on-metal contact should be inspected and greased regularly. Besides reducing the machine’s noise production, proper maintenance can also help extend the machinery’s life and prevent unanticipated breakdowns. Excessive noise from poorly maintained machinery and equipment might cause permanent or temporary deafness. Although hearing usually is restored within just a few hours, temporary deafness shouldn’t be overlooked because it is a symptom that persistent exposure may cause lasting harm.
4. Use proper PPE to preserve hearing
You can use several personal protective equipments (PPE), such as earplugs and earmuffs, to address any high sound level concerns you may have in the workplace. Ensure your workers put on this equipment in potentially dangerous and noisy settings. Safety specialists should also ensure that this equipment does not isolate workers from all noise and that they can still hear their colleagues or supervisors. This way, they can maintain adequate communication on-site to avoid missing critical instructions. Employers and safety authorities should also urge workers to use PPE at toolbox meetings or by placing notices near noisy construction sites.
The smallest effort you put into reducing noise in the workplace can enhance employee morale and productivity. Try a few tips above and see a significant improvement in your work atmosphere.
