Sound, Noise and Vibration FAQs

A:

Vibration-induced white finger (VWF) is the most common condition among the operators of hand-held vibrating tools. Vibration can causechanges in tendons, muscles, bones and joints and can affect the nervous system. Collectively, these effects are known as Hand-Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS). Exposure to large amounts of whole body vibration (WBV) can cause joint and back pain as well as fatigue, stomach pains and headaches.

A:

Exposure to high levels of noise, either continuously or as a loud sudden ‘bang’ can have a number of physiological and psychological effects on workers including stress, tinnitus and if exposed to high noise levels over long periods of time, permanent loss of hearing can occur. High noise levels can also interfere with communications in the workplace, leading to an increased risk of accidents.

A:

This is the time – weighted average of the noise level which an employee is exposed to for a nominal eight hour working day, which is defined by an internal standard ISO. If the daily noise exposure varies from one working day to another, employers may use a weekly noise exposure level to assess the levels of noise to which an employee may be exposed to.

A: Our basic noise-indicating instrument is the SD200 (sound detector). The SD200 is a compact, lightweight sound level meter that is ideal for many workplace and community noise measurement surveys. The instrument incorporates an easy to read 'recommended hearing protection level' indicator. Available to hire or buy.