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Noise pollution a safety concern, even in the lab

Lab Safety Advisor, November 21, 2005

Studies of occupation-related hearing loss show that the noise level of most labs is between 60 and 80 decibels (dB). This compares with normal conversation at 60 or 65, a vacuum cleaner or hair dryer at about 75, and at 80 a crowded restaurant. Though working in a lab is not quite the same as operating a jackhammer, laboratorians, like anyone else, are prone to hearing loss: According to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), work-related hearing loss is a "critical workplace safety and health issue." NIOSH and the occupational safety and health community named hearing loss one of the 21 priority areas for research in the next century. Read more on NIOSH's findings here.

NIOSH's findings are echoed by a position statement released by the American Academy of Audiology, "Preventing Noise-Induced Occupational Hearing Loss," released in October 2003. It says that "the average, otherwise healthy person will have essentially normal hearing at least up to age 60 if his or her unprotected ears are not exposed to high noise levels," i.e., levels about 85 dB.

Lab Environs

Lab-specific sources of noise include automation. As labs become mechanized, the noise levels go up. Sounds may be pronounced in labs without dropped ceilings or without baffles, especially if metal cabinetry is used. That bound-back sound you hear when a metal door hits the side of metal cabinet is certainly louder than 60 dB.

Regrettably, noise-induced hearing loss is 100 percent preventable, but once acquired it's irreversible, studies agree. It's up to both employers and employees to protect workers' hearing.

Are laboratorians obligated to protect workers against hearing loss? Yes, they are. The Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA) General Industry Standard 1910.95, which addresses occupational noise exposure, is designed to "protect general industry employees, such as those working in the manufacturing, utilities, and service sectors. It establishes permissible noise exposures and outlines requirements according to two primary sections. OSHA says that an "employer must administer a continuing, effective hearing conservation program whenever employee noise exposures are at or above an eight hour time-weighted average of 85 dB or, equivalently, a dose of 50 percent." See the original citation here.

Noise levels between 85 and 100 dB warrant earplugs; however, their use is optional. Noise beyond 100 decibels requires a mandatory use of earplugs. Properly fitted earplugs can cut noise levels by up to 20 dB. Check the package on pre-manufactured earplugs for their noise reduction ratings. Do not allow homemade earplugs such as wadded cotton. Make sure that employees inspect earplugs before each use and keep them clean. Replace damaged earplugs immediately.

Lastly, lab managers and facilities managers might also consider petitioning the hospital to ensure the lab is included in any hospital renovation. It sounds obvious, but doing no more than keeping the lab up to code is too often the case in facility refurbishment. Items aiding sound reduction in the lab include rubber flooring and high-absorbent acoustical tiling.

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