Noise climate assessment in ceramic industries (Iran) using acoustic indices and its control solutions

Abstract

This study aimed at providing a framework for prioritizing workplaces in terms of noise control in the ceramic industry, as exposure to industrial noise has long been recognized as an occupational hazard. A TES-1354 device was used to measure the noise level. The WHC continuous noise index was used to calculate the amount of noise pollution brought on by process equipment. Finally, the industry's workplaces were prioritized for noise control using the noise control prioritization index (NCPI), which considers three factors: the number of individuals exposed, the duration of exposure, and the weighting factor based on the intensity of exposure to noise. The sound pressure level (SPL) values in the studied industry were measured between 69 and 93.70 dB (A). Furthermore, 20.53% of all measured stations were in the high-risk limit (SPL ≥ 85 dB(A)), while 79.47% fell within the safe range (69 ≤SPL<85 dB(A)). For stone crushing workplace, WHC continuous noise index values were found to be near 1, indicating unpleasant working conditions for workers. Additionally, the highest value of NCPI was estimated for the stone crusher workplaces. Our findings indicate that the stone crusher workplace is the priority for noise emission control.

Keywords

• ceramic industry
• sound pressure level (spl)
• earmuffs and earplugs
• continuous noise index of whc
• noise control prioritization index (ncpi)