Noise in the refuse and recycling sector: time for a reality check!

Cirrus Research, a leading expert in the design and production of noise measurement instruments, is helping to tackle the dangers of noise exposure in the refuse and recycling industry. As recycling initiatives have developed, they have brought with them dangerous levels of noise that workers in the sector are exposed to on a daily basis; from traffic and vehicle machinery, to the actual disposal of refuse and recycling. This combination of noise, results in high exposure to noise levels that, without the correct hearing protection, can lead to permanent hearing damage.

If a worker’s daily exposure exceeds 85dB(A) then it is mandatory that hearing protection be worn and with overall daily dose levels in the refuse and recycling sector typically varying from 93 dB(A) up to 99 dB(A), or in other words between 600% and 2200% above the second action level of 85 dB(A), operatives without adequate hearing protection can face permanent hearing damage. In fact, the kerbside collection of glass is so noisy that a loader could receive their eight hour legal limit of noise exposure in just twenty minutes, similar to a racing car mechanic.

It is therefore important that organisations carry out noise surveys on a regular basis to measure sound levels and define the risk control strategies to be implemented. Measuring equipment such as Cirrus Research’s doseBadge’s and sound level meters are suitable for measuring the levels of noise in waste and recycling.