Managing sensitivity to noise

Workplaces can be noisy environments with the combination of work activities, machines operating, people talking, background music, loudspeaker announcements etc. For people that are sensitive to noise, they may find it difficult to hear, have poor concentration, experience pain from loud or sudden noises with potential impact on safety and reduced work performance.

Learning to manage a sensitivity to noise at work can ensure individuals are able to focus fully on their job or task and participate fully in their role within the workplace (Better Health Channel 2006; WorkSafe 2002).

Workplace solutions and adjustments

For people with a sensitivity to noise, a number of strategies can be considered within the workplace:

• consider the provision of opportunities to work from home or in alternative locations such as a private office where noise levels are lower
• consider the provision of flexible work schedules to enable individuals to structure their work tasks at times or places where the noise levels are lower
• avoid yelling or the use of raised voices as it can distort the message
• limit the use of music in the workplace as this creates extra noise

There are also a range of products and supports that can be fitted to the workplace:

sound machines—nature and environmental

sound absorption panels

cubicle walls and doors

partitioning

noise and vibration suppression materials

vibration suppressing paint

controlling noise within the workplace

Aids can also be used by the individual person to reduce noise levels and distraction:

• headsets and earphones
• ear muffs and ear plugs

Also, when working in noisy or loud environments, people with hearing impairments may require specialist aids or supports to assist them to hear better or more clearly such as:

• sound amplification
• hearing aids
• assistive listening systems
• hearing aid microphones—directional
• Hearing
• Ensuring physical comfort

(WorkSafe 2002; Better health Channel 2006)

References

Better Health Channel 2006, Hearing problems – reduced tolerance to sound, State Government of Victoria, Melbourne, viewed 17 August 2007,  http://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/bhcv2/bhcarticles.nsf/pages/Hearing_problems_reduced_tolerance_to_sound?open

WorkSafe 2002, Code of Practice – Managing Noise at Workplaces, Government of Western Australia Department of Consumer and Employment Protection, Perth, viewed 20 July 2007, http://www.worksafe.wa.gov.au/newsite/worksafe/media/pdf/codes/code_noise_workplace.pdf