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Contact us today to discuss your noise assessment needs or to schedule a workplace survey.

Noise assessments

Protecting hearing and health

Excessive noise in the workplace is a leading cause of permanent hearing loss and can contribute to stress, reduced productivity and increased risk of accidents. Often, hearing damage occurs so gradually that by the time workers notice, it may be too late to prevent it. New Zealand has strict workplace noise exposure limits, legally requiring employers to assess and control noise risks to protect workers and ensure that noise exposure does not exceed an 8-hour average of 85 dB(A) or a peak of 140 dB(C). Impact noise above 140 dB can cause immediate hearing loss. If there is uncertainty about exposure, noise monitoring must be carried out.

An industrial hygienist conducting noise level measurements in a manufacturing plant, with sound meters and production machinery visible, Noise level measurement scene

FAQs

  • When should a noise assessment be carried out in a workplace?

    A noise assessment should be carried out where there is potential for workers to be exposed to elevated noise levels, or where there is uncertainty around whether exposure standards are being exceeded. Noise assessments are used to identify risks and determine whether controls are needed to protect hearing.

  • Do I need a noise assessment to meet compliance requirements?

    If there is a risk of noise exposure exceeding safe levels, a noise assessment is required to evaluate the extent of exposure and support compliance with workplace health and safety obligations.

The importance of noise assessments

Conducting a noise assessment is essential for protecting worker health, ensuring legal compliance and managing workplace risks. Identifying and controlling noise hazards helps prevent hearing loss claims, reduces absenteeism and supports a safer, more productive workplace.

Noise monitoring typically begins with a preliminary assessment to identify potential noise hazards, followed by detailed exposure surveys and personal noise dosimetry using specialised equipment. The frequency of monitoring should be based on risk, with high-risk occupations requiring more frequent assessments. Detailed surveys help pinpoint sources of noise, evaluate the effectiveness of controls and guide improvements.

You should conduct a noise assessment:
  • When workers are exposed to loud machinery, tools or processes
  • During or after changes to plant, equipment or work practices
  • In response to worker complaints or health concerns
  • As part of routine occupational hygiene or risk management programs.

We can help you identify, assess and control noise risks in your workplace.

FAQs

  • What is a noise assessment and what does it involve?

    A noise assessment involves measuring sound levels in a workplace or environment to determine exposure risks. This can include personal monitoring for workers and area monitoring across sites.

  • Why are noise assessments important?

    Excessive noise exposure can lead to hearing loss and other health impacts. Assessments help identify risks and ensure appropriate controls are in place to protect workers.

  • What types of noise are assessed?

    Noise assessments can evaluate a range of sources, including machinery, equipment, construction activities and operational processes that generate sustained or intermittent noise.

  • How is noise exposure measured?

    Noise exposure is typically measured using specialised instruments that record sound levels over time, including personal dosimeters worn by workers and fixed monitoring equipment.

  • What happens if noise levels are too high?

    If excessive noise levels are identified, control measures may be required. This can include engineering controls, administrative changes or the use of hearing protection to reduce exposure.

  • Do workers need to be involved in noise monitoring?

    Yes. Workers may be required to wear monitoring devices during their normal duties to provide accurate data on personal noise exposure throughout a shift.

 
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