Noise : Control Measure | Full List of Hierarchy-Based Controls

Absolutely! Below is a complete and detailed master list of all possible Noise Control Measures, fully structured under the Hierarchy of Controls – suitable for NEBOSH IG2, construction, manufacturing, factories, and general workplaces. This list includes elimination, substitution, engineering, administrative, PPE, and extra best practices, with no item skipped.


Full List: Noise Control Measures (Hierarchy of Controls)


🔴 1. Elimination (Most Effective)

Remove the noise hazard entirely.

  • Eliminate the noisy process entirely
  • Avoid using noise-producing equipment in the design phase
  • Prefabricate off-site to eliminate on-site cutting/drilling
  • Use pre-assembled parts instead of noisy installations
  • Eliminate need for metal-on-metal work
  • Relocate noisy activities to remote areas away from workers
  • Change production methods to quieter alternatives (e.g., adhesive instead of hammering)
  • Replace noisy process with non mechanical alternative
  • Avoid working near active generators or compressors

🟡 2. Substitution

Replace the source with a quieter alternative.

  • Replace diesel generators with battery/electric versions
  • Use quieter models of machines/tools (e.g., quiet air compressors)
  • Replace pneumatic tools with hydraulic or electric ones
  • Replace impact tools (e.g., hammer drills) with rotary tools
  • Replace metal bins with plastic to reduce impact noise
  • Use rubber wheels instead of metal for trolleys
  • Replace alarms with flashing lights (visual warning)
  • Use variable speed drives (VSD) to reduce noise from motors

🛠️ 3. Engineering Controls

Isolate or reduce the sound at the source, along the path, or at the receiver.

At the Source:

  • Install Sound Barrier or Acoustic enclosures for (compressors, fans, motors, generators)
  • Silencers or mufflers on exhausts and pneumatic equipment
  • Use of sound-dampening materials around machines
  • Anti-vibration pads, mounts, or isolation bases
  • Use of dynamic balancing in rotating machinery
  • Acoustic curtains around noisy equipment
  • Regular maintenance to reduce mechanical wear (squealing, grinding)

Along the Path:

  • Sound barriers between noise source and workers
  • Relocate workstations away from noise-producing machines
  • Install acoustic baffles on walls or ceilings
  • Insulate ducts and pipes that transmit noise
  • Close unnecessary openings or gaps in walls/windows

At the Receiver:

  • Use enclosed operator cabins with acoustic glazing
  • Provide quiet rest areas for workers
  • Install sound-absorbing panels around workstations

📋 4. Administrative Controls

Reduce exposure through policies and work practices.

  • Rotate workers in high-noise areas to limit time exposure
  • Post “Hearing Protection Required” signage in affected zones
  • Restrict access to high-noise areas (e.g., boiler room, compressor house)
  • Train workers on noise risks and safe practices
  • Plan noisy work during shifts with fewer workers
  • Provide quiet workstations for non-noisy tasks
  • Mark out noise hazard zones with floor paint/tape
  • Schedule equipment maintenance to prevent excessive noise
  • Conduct regular noise surveys with sound meters
  • Implement a hearing conservation program
  • Perform health surveillance/audiometry testing
  • Keep noise logs for long-term exposure tracking

🧤 5. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Last resort – only if noise cannot be controlled by other means.

  • Earplugs (disposable foam, reusable silicone, custom-fit)
  • Earmuffs (over-the-head or helmet-mounted)
  • High NRR-rated (Noise Reduction Rating) hearing protection
  • Dual protection: Earmuffs + earplugs for extremely high noise
  • Use of electronic earmuffs (allowing speech but blocking noise)
  • Fit testing and training in proper use of hearing protection
  • Regular replacement of worn-out PPE
  • Clean storage and maintenance of PPE

🧩 Other Supporting Measures

AreaAction
SupervisionEnsure correct PPE use and worker rotation
MonitoringUse dosimeters, sound level meters, and regular assessments
PlanningPlan high-noise tasks during low-traffic periods
Access ControlSecure high-noise areas and use entry permits
CommunicationUse radios, hand signals, or visual alarms in noisy environments
SignagePlace clear signs: “Hearing Protection Must Be Worn”
RecordkeepingMaintain inspection logs, training records, and noise surveys
EmergencyInclude hearing-related hazards in first aid and incident reports

📌 Example Noise Control Statement for NEBOSH IG2:

“Diesel generator emits noise above 90 dB(A). Replaced with an electric model and enclosed it in a soundproof barrier. Restricted area with clear warning signs. Earmuffs provided (30 dB NRR), and workers rotated every 2 hours. Noise level monitored weekly.”


🧪 Testing & Measurement Tools:

  • Class 1/2 Sound Level Meters
  • Personal Noise Dosimeters
  • Octave Band Analyzers
  • Mobile noise monitoring apps (calibrated)
  • Audiometry testing booths

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