Scout's Toolbox Talks

To truly understand and control noise risks on the jobsite, you need more than just guesswork — you need accurate noise measurements. Sound level meters and dosimeters are the tools that make this possible.

Why It Matters:

Without measuring noise levels, you can’t know when hearing protection is required or whether existing protection is effective. Relying on assumptions leaves workers at risk of long-term hearing damage and OSHA violations.

Key Points:

• Sound level meters provide real-time readings of noise in a specific area, useful for identifying loud tools or machines.
• Noise dosimeters are worn by workers and measure cumulative exposure over time, giving a better picture of daily risks.
• OSHA’s permissible exposure limit (PEL) is 90 dB over 8 hours, but anything over 85 dB should trigger hearing conservation actions.
• Areas or tasks registering above 85 dB require hearing protection and signage.
• Noise measurements help validate the effectiveness of engineering controls or quiet tool replacements.
• Supervisors should routinely check noise levels in different areas of the jobsite, especially when introducing new equipment.

✅ Measuring noise is the first step in controlling it.

Ask the Crew:

• Have we ever measured how loud it really gets near our workstations?
• Would noise monitoring help us identify risky areas or tasks?

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