Construction site noise can be dangerous. How to protect yourself?

Construction sites can have very dangerous noise levels. Although noise levels on construction sites can often exceed 90 dB, construction workers do not always wear hearing protection, putting their health at risk. The noise on the construction site is different and always changes depending on the activities performed. It can also be dangerous for people living in the vicinity of the building.

Activities and job functions on a construction site are constantly changing as work progresses. Each of the different construction operations uses very different equipment to carry out their work and therefore the noise generated can vary. Tasks often overlap, so even workers performing jobs that are relatively quiet can be exposed to noise from other nearby construction activities.

Noisy activities on construction sites include the use of jackhammers, dump trucks, concrete mixers, concrete cutters, power saws, tamping machines and welding machines, as well as noise generated by hand tools such as hammers and drills.

Noise on the construction site often exceeds a dangerous 90 dB

Noise generated on the construction site can easily exceed 90 dB and requires the wearing of hearing protection. Long-term exposure to sounds above 90 dB can cause permanent damage to hearing loss. In addition, it adversely affects mental health and can be the cause of cardiovascular diseases.

Is it necessary to wear hearing protection?

Evaluating what hearing protection to wear requires noise measurement and analysis of the results by a qualified professional. We offer you accredited noise measurement . We measure noise, building acoustics or acoustic studies of your projects. Contact us. If the noise level exceeds 90 dB as an 8-hour time-weighted average, ear protection must be worn.

Which hearing protection to choose?

When choosing suitable hearing protection, the employer must take several factors into account:

• First, it is necessary to take into account the noise level and even the frequency of the prevailing sounds. This may require the assistance of a health and safety professional. He himself will propose the most suitable hearing protection for the given type of building.
• Next, it is necessary to consider the maintenance of hearing protectors. Construction sites can often be very dirty, so it's a good idea to choose a product that is easy to maintain or requires minimal maintenance. A good example is earplugs.
• Finally, the interaction of hearing protection with other personal protective equipment such as helmets, goggles and welding hoods is a very important factor. Hearing protection should not in any way prevent the use of other safety features.

Do you live near a construction site? Noise can be dangerous for you too.

Construction noise does not only affect the workers. If you have a construction site in your area, consider soundproofing your apartment. Even if you are not working on a construction site, construction site noise can have unpleasant effects on your health and well-being at home.