Measuring noise levels and the exposure to noise by a worker is the most important part of a workplace hearing conservation program. It helps identify work locations where there are potential concerns, employees who may be affected, and where additional noise measurements may need to be collected. A noise survey is also an important component in determining if the existing hearing protection used in your facility is adequate.

Ontario Regulation 381/15 is the amended Noise Regulation made under the Ontario Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA) that was approved on December 9, 2015. Ontario Regulation 381/15 replaces the noise protection requirements set out in other Ontario Regulations. One key change is that this new Regulation extends noise protection requirements to all workplaces in Ontario. Ontario Regulation 381/15 came into effect on July 1, 2016. It will help protect Ontario’s workers from noise-induced hearing loss, a leading cause of occupational disease for Ontario workers.

Noise surveys are typically conducted with personal dosimeters or integrated sound level meters. The survey can cover a specific area or a range of areas to provide you with a complete understanding of the noise levels found in your facility. IES can help you meet legislative requirements and ensure your workers are adequately protected from the long-term effects of noise exposure.