Noise Exposure and the OSHA Standard Presented By: Stephen Jurss, CIH, CSP Civil Engineering Bldg. Rm. B173 TX: 494-9227, sejurss@purdue.edu
Introduction Definition of Noise? Unwanted sound.
The Physics of Sound
The Physics of Sound
The Physics of Sound
Anatomy of the Human Ear
Anatomy of the Human Ear
Noise Convection and Conduction
Physiology of the Cochlea
Cochlea Cilia
Operation of the Cochlea
Healthy Cochlea The cilia ( sensory hairs) appear normal
Damaged Cochlea Loss of cilia as a result of Noise
Sound Levels
OSHA Noise Standard 2 Program Strategy – TWA- Time Weighted Average Noise Exposure Program – 90 dBA 8 hour TWA(Equivalent Exposure Concept) Hearing Conservation Program – 85 dBA 8 hour TWA TWA- Time Weighted Average
OSHA Regulation – Exposure Level vs Duration
Noise Measuring Equipment Sound Level Meters (SLM) Continuous on-mobile sources Noise Dosimeters Mobile/variable noise sources
Noise Control Measures Engineering Controls – Enclosure, Sound Dampening and Absorption Administrative Controls Use of Hearing Protection Devices - Noise Reduction Rating (NRR)
Hearing Protection Devices and Their Noise Reduction Ratings EAR Foam Plugs (NRR = 29 dB) EAR CARBOFLEX (NRR= 20 dB) Moldex PURAFIT Foam Plugs (NRR=30 dB)