Noise Hazards in the Workplace: Protecting Industrial Workers from Hearing Loss

Noise hazards in industrial settings are a serious but often underestimated threat. Prolonged or sudden exposure to loud environments in industries such as manufacturing, logistics, and construction can lead to noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL), tinnitus, and other long-term health issues. Ensuring safe noise levels isn’t just good practice—it’s a legal requirement under WHS laws.

This guide breaks down the legal limits, risks, and control measures for managing workplace noise hazards—and how DIGI CLIP mobile forms simplify compliance reporting and risk assessments in real-time.

What Are Noise Hazards in the Workplace?

Noise hazards include any sound that has the potential to damage a worker’s hearing. It may be sudden, like a loud bang or machinery failure, or continuous, such as engines, compressors, or conveyor systems. Both types can interfere with communication, increase stress levels, and cause permanent hearing damage.

For example, machinery hazards often produce unsafe noise levels. Learn how to identify and reduce them in our guide Address Machinery and Equipment Hazards.

Legal Noise Exposure Limits and Health Effects

According to Safe Work Australia:

  • Workers must not be exposed to more than 85 decibels (dB) over an 8-hour shift.

  • Instantaneous exposure must not exceed 140 dB.

  • In the presence of ototoxic chemicals, the safe exposure threshold can drop to 80 dB or lower.

Excessive workplace noise can cause:

  • Permanent or temporary hearing loss

  • Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)

  • Increased stress, fatigue, and reduced focus

  • Raised blood pressure and cardiovascular strain

Common Sources of Industrial Noise

Noise hazards often come from:

  • Industrial machinery

  • Construction tools such as jackhammers, saws, and drills

  • Heavy vehicle operations (forklifts, trucks, excavators)

  • Ventilation, hydraulics, and pressurised systems

Learn more about industrial risks in our post Electrical Hazards a Complete Guide to Safety and Compliance.

Controlling Noise Hazards: The Hierarchy of Controls

Use the hierarchy of controls to manage noise exposure:

Elimination
Remove noisy processes altogether.
Substitution
Use quieter machines or tools (e.g., electric over pneumatic).
Engineering Controls
Install barriers, mufflers, or acoustic dampeners.
Administrative Controls
Rotate workers, limit time in high-noise zones, provide quiet rest areas.
PPE
Provide and enforce use of quality earmuffs or earplugs.

DIGI CLIP mobile forms can help you document all of these steps efficiently.

Additional Strategies for Reducing Noise Risk

  • Schedule regular equipment maintenance to avoid unnecessary noise from wear

  • Train workers on correct PPE use and reporting of noise issues

  • Provide audiometric testing for at-risk workers

  • Use mobile apps to complete and store digital safety forms

Personal protective equipment (PPE) plays a crucial role in hearing protection. Read more on Personal protective equipment (PPE) here.

Why Managing Noise Hazards Matters

Implementing an effective noise hazard control strategy leads to:

✅ Reduced risk of hearing loss

✅ Better team communication

✅ Increased focus and productivity

✅ Compliance with WHS regulations and CoR responsibilities

Under the Work Health and Safety (WHS) Act, every Person Conducting a Business or Undertaking (PCBU) must eliminate or minimise noise hazards as far as reasonably practicable.

If you deal with other exposure risks like chemicals, you’ll find our post on workplace hazardous chemicals helpful.

How DIGI CLIP Helps with Noise Hazard Management

DIGI CLIP mobile forms streamline the way you assess, record, and act on workplace noise risks:

Real-Time Checklist Completion
Complete inspections and checklists on mobile devices and uploaded to the cloud—no more paperwork or manual transfers.
Attach Photos & Audio
Embed photos, audio notes, and comments directly into your forms to enhance evidence-based reporting and incident tracking.
Automatic Report Logging
All completed forms are automatically logged, time-stamped, and shareable for audits, corrective actions, or team communication.
PPE & Training Compliance
Track PPE usage and ensure staff have completed mandatory training as part of checklist workflows and inspection protocols.

With digital forms in your toolkit, staying on top of noise hazard management has never been easier.

Start your free trial of DIGI CLIP today and experience safety made simple.

Conclusion: Take Action on Workplace Noise Hazards

Noise hazards are more than just an inconvenience—they are a serious threat to worker health, safety, and legal compliance. Whether you’re managing a warehouse, construction site, or logistics operation, addressing noise risks should be a priority.

By using a structured approach—combining elimination, engineering controls, PPE, and employee training—you can significantly reduce the risk of noise-induced hearing loss and improve overall productivity.

Digital solutions like DIGI CLIP mobile forms make it easy to document inspections, track PPE use, and demonstrate compliance with Safe Work Australia regulations. When it comes to hearing protection, prevention is always better than cure.

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FAQs

What is considered a noise hazard in the workplace?
A noise hazard exists when sound levels in a workplace exceed safe thresholds and can cause hearing loss or interfere with communication. It includes both sudden loud noises and continuous exposure to elevated noise levels over time.
What are the legal noise limits in Australia?
According to Safe Work Australia, workers must not be exposed to noise levels above 85 dB averaged over an 8-hour shift or 140 dB at any instant. Lower limits apply when ototoxic substances are present.
What industries are most at risk for noise hazards?
Industries such as manufacturing, logistics, construction, and mining are among the highest risk due to the frequent use of heavy machinery, tools, and vehicles that generate excessive noise.
How can noise hazards be controlled effectively?
Use the hierarchy of controls: Eliminate noise sources, substitute quieter equipment, apply engineering controls like barriers and dampeners, enforce administrative measures, and provide proper hearing PPE.
Can digital tools help with noise hazard compliance?
Yes. Digital tools like DIGI CLIP mobile forms streamline noise assessments, track PPE use, record incidents, and generate real-time reports for compliance and audit readiness.

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