Noise
Many tools and items of machinery you may use in the building and construction industry are very noisy and may cause permanent hearing loss.
Employees such as drivers of earth moving equipment and cranes, electricians, roof carpenters, finishing carpenters and roof tilers can be exposed to high noise levels. Many are frequently exposed for a long period of time to noise levels exceeding 85 dB(A), which is the level where noise control measures should be taken.
If you have to raise your voice to be heard by someone a metre away, your hearing could be at risk.
Your employer should provide solutions to noise hazards in the building industry such as substituting quieter blades for brick saws, quieter nozzles for air blowers, choosing quieter equipment such as brooms or vacuum cleaners instead of blowers, and keeping equipment in good condition. It may be possible for your employer to arrange the site layout so noisy processes are located away from employees not involved in their operation. Portable barriers can also be used around static equipment like generators and concrete pumps.
If the noise cannot be reduced at its source, and there is no other way to separate people from damaging noise exposure, your employer should provide personal protective hearing equipment such as ear muffs or plugs and you should wear it.
