Construction Noise Hazards

According to the Center for Construction Research and Training (CPWR), as many as three out of four construction workers are routinely exposed to potentially hazardous noise on jobsites. Construction workers are also more likely to report difficulty hearing.

Because noise in construction is regulated separately from general industry, employers may be unsure of requirements and best practices for protecting construction workers against loud noise.

Pertinent OSHA regulations are covered under 29 CFR 1926:

• Subpart D – Occupational Health and Environmental Controls, 1926.52
  • Occupational noise exposure
  • Continuing, effective, hearing conservation program must be administered when exposures exceed 90 dBA-TWA (see 1926.52(d)(1)).
• Subpart E – Personal Protective and Life Saving Equipment, 1926.101
  • Hearing protection

A number of national consensus standards and professional recommendations can also provide guidance to employers.

• Occupational Noise Exposure - Hearing Loss in Construction | Occupational Safety and Health Administration
• Preventing Hearing Loss in Construction: NIOSH Study Identifies High-Risk Noise-Exposed Workers | Newsroom | CDC
• CPWR_Construction_Chart_Book-7th.pdf, Ch. 47 Hearing Loss and Tinnitus
• Noise Hazards - National Safety Council

To learn more about how CavCom can help improve safety and productivity on construction projects and worksites, see our dedicated applications page or contact us for more information.