Assessment of Occupational Exposure to Noise among Sawmill Workers in the Timber Processing Factories

Abstract

In the workplace, exposure to noise levels at or above 85 dB(A) can increase the risk for the development of noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL). Sawmill workers are continuously exposed to noise levels above 85 dB(A) and they had to raise their voices when they communicate if they are 1 m away from each other. The study was conducted to measure and determine the time-weighted average (TWA) occupational exposure levels to noise in the timber processing factories and compare the results with the noise rating limits. Personal and area noise survey was undertaken using a calibrated SV104IS noise dosimeters (Svantek, Poland) and integrating type 1 sound level meter (Soundpro SE/DL, U.S.A.). Data was analyzed using Microsoft Office Excel 2019 Analysis Tool Pak for descriptive statistics. Both the geometric means and standard deviation as well the minimum and maximum values were determined. The geometric mean (GSD) for area noise exposure levels at sawmill A was 90.05(8.02) dB(A) while at sawmill B was 90.14(7.94) dB(A). Furthermore, the geometric mean (GSD) for personal noise exposure level at sawmill A was 92.26(4.35) dB(A) while at sawmill B was 92.24(2.65) dB(A). The results revealed that sawmill workers were exposed to high noise level above the 85 dB(A) noise rating limit and were at moderate-to-high risk of suffering from NIHL.