Workplace noise monitoring
Long-term exposure to loud noise is one of the most common causes of preventable work-related illness in New Zealand. A noise assessment measures the noise in your workplace, compares each worker's exposure with the workplace exposure standard, and gives you practical ways to reduce noise and protect hearing.
A MAIOH-qualified occupational hygienist carries out the measurements with calibrated noise dosimeters, which workers wear during their shift, and sound level meters, following AS/NZS 1269.
What we assess
- Each worker's daily noise dose (LAeq,8h)
- Area noise surveys and noise mapping
- Peak noise from impacts and bangs (LCpeak)
- Whether your hearing protection is good enough (SLC80 rating)
- Recommendations covering equipment, work practices and hearing protection
When to request a noise assessment
A noise assessment is worth doing if people have to raise their voices to be heard at work, if hearing protection is already in use, or if you need a baseline for a hearing conservation programme. Under the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015 many businesses need to assess noise, particularly in construction, manufacturing, agriculture and food processing.