Construction Noise Exposure Assessment

Angle grinders, circular saws, concrete saws, impact drills, and rotary hammers generate impulsive and continuous noise at levels consistently exceeding 100 dB(A). Short-duration tasks can contribute significantly to daily noise dose.

Piling rigs, concrete pumps, cranes, excavators, and compressors generate broadband noise that affects both operators and nearby workers. Octave band analysis is required for effective HPD selection in mixed-frequency environments.

Cartridge-fired fastener tools, hammering, and pneumatic breakers produce impulse noise that can exceed the 140 dB(C) peak exposure limit in a single event. Peak noise assessment requires specific instrumentation.

Typical Worker Groups

Common similar exposure groups (SEGs) assessed for this sub-category.

Regulatory Context

The WHS Regulation requires PCBUs to ensure noise exposure does not exceed the WES of 85 dB(A) LAeq,8h or 140 dB(C) peak. Where noise exceeds these levels, a hierarchy of controls must be applied. Audiometric testing is required for workers with significant noise exposure. The Managing Noise and Preventing Hearing Loss at Work Code of Practice provides guidance.