What noise levels do you encounter in the workplace?

What is a decibel?

Noise is expressed in decibels, abbreviated as dB. It shows how loud a sound is. From a soft whisper to a fighter jet: our ears can perceive an enormous range of sound levels.

The decibel system works logarithmically. This means that with every increase of 10 dB, the sound becomes ten times more intense. A sound of 30 dB is therefore ten times stronger than 20 dB. And 40 dB is even a hundred times stronger than 20 dB.

When can noise cause hearing damage?

Hearing damage can occur due to prolonged exposure to noise levels of 80 dB or higher. The risk of hearing damage is determined by a combination of how loud the sound is and how long you are exposed to the noise level. The hearing threshold is 0 dB and the pain threshold starts at 120-130 dB.

Noise levels and exposure

How long you are safe in situations with high noise levels depends on the level of the noise level. But this gradient is logarithmic, which means it increases rapidly. The safe period is therefore rapidly getting shorter, even if the level is only slightly higher. As a rule, for every increase of 3dB in volume, the safe period halves.

Below are some examples of noise levels and decibels (dB)

The image below clearly shows how much difference there is between everyday sound sources. What starts with whispering at 20 dB (A) quickly rises to values that can strain the hearing. From 80 dB (A), prolonged exposure can cause hearing damage. The sound of a lawnmower or circular saw may seem normal in a work situation, but in the long run, the strain on the ear is considerable.

Especially when working near machines or tools, it is important to be aware of noise. A small difference in dB can have a major effect on hearing stress.

What are the noise levels in the workplace?

Different work floors have different noise levels that can affect the safety and health of employees. Here is an overview of the noise levels in various work floors and when it is necessary to use otoplastics.

Offices and quiet workplaces 30-50 dB
‍Typical noise levels in quiet offices and workplaces.

Industrial environments 70-85 dB
‍Noise levels in light industries such as printing and food processing plants.

Construction sites and heavy industry 85-100 dB
‍Noise levels at construction sites, shipyards and heavy industries.
Please note: Hearing protection is mandatory at 85 dB and higher

Airports and music concerts 100-120 dB
‍Noise levels at aircraft takeoff and at music concerts.

Special industrial processes 120-140 dB
‍Noise levels for special industrial processes and the use of heavy machinery.

Limits and legislation

In the Netherlands, employers are, according to the Working Conditions Act required to take measures to protect employees from harmful noise in the workplace. Examples include measuring noise levels, offering hearing protection and reducing exposure time. Similar obligations also apply in Belgium. According to the Codex on Welfare At work, employers must assess noise risks and take appropriate measures as soon as exposure exceeds certain threshold values. This can range from providing information and medical supervision to the mandatory provision and wearing of hearing protection.