Semester

Spring

Date of Graduation

2016

Document Type

Problem/Project Report

Degree Type

MS

College

Statler College of Engineering and Mineral Resources

Department

Industrial and Managements Systems Engineering

Abstract

This report documents the findings, observations, and recommendations of the investigator's noise assessment survey, performed at a northwest company fabrication building located in Washington State. The assessment was performed at the request of the company's safety management staff and the fabrication building's industrial hygienist between June 6 and July 22, 2014. The goal of the noise assessment was to determine the risk of employees developing noise-induced hearing loss from their work at the company; to update the company's hearing conservation program; and to provide noise reduction recommendations. During the assessment, noise monitoring data was collected through the use of personal noise dosimetry and through the use of a sound level meter. A total of 34 samples were collected from 32 employees using personal dosimetry. Samples collected represented a full shift time weighted averages, spanning both the 1st and 2nd shifts. A total of 147 sound level meter measurements were also collected throughout the assessment simultaneously with the personal noise dosimetry. Data analysis of noise monitoring samples indicated the presence of a possible noise overexposure for 3 employees of the company. In accordance with internal company policy and Washington state health and safety regulations, the findings from the noise assessment reinforced the continued inclusion of the over-exposed employees into the company's hearing conservation program. Noise reduction strategy recommendations included a combination of engineering and administrative controls, in addition to the company's use of a broad range of hearing protection devices.

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