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10.3: Sound Level Chart

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    Equipment and daily activities at construction job sites can expose workers to high levels of noise. Sound levels on the chart below are listed in decibels (dBA) – the larger the number, the higher the volume or decibel level. How loud the noise is (volume), how long the noise lasts, and how close you are to the noise are all important in determining the hazard.

    What can be done about job site noise levels?
    One of the best ways to reduce exposure to hazardous noise on a work site is by planning for potential exposure before activities start. When jobs produce high noise levels, there are ways to reduce your exposure other than or in addition to hearing protectors. For instance, your employer or supervisor can buy materials to build sound barriers or schedule noisy activities during hours when fewer people are working. Your employer can also rent or buy quieter equipment. Your employer should hold daily or weekly safety meetings to discuss ways to limit high noise levels and other hazards. During safety meetings, the general contractor can ask subcontractors to describe the planned tasks for the day or week where hazardous noise might be generated, as well as what equipment will be used; you can use these opportunities to talk about ways to limit exposure. Even changes in the noise level that seem small (e.g., 3 dBA) are actually significant reductions in the noise.

    Here are some specific ways to limit exposure:
    • Plan to make or use prefabricated noise barriers.
    • Ask your employer to buy or rent quieter equipment/tools.
    • Limit the hours you work in hazardous noise areas.
    • Identify equipment and work areas where signs can be posted to make other workers aware of high noise areas.
    • Use hearing protection to supplement noise reduction.

    Noise Control at the Job Site
    The work site is where workers can have the most impact by working with employers to identify hazardous equipment, conduct hazard assessments, and apply the control process explained below. Employer support for providing supplies (acoustical insulation, extension cords, pre-fabricated noise barriers), hand tools, and sufficient set-up time are essential.

    This page titled 10.3: Sound Level Chart was last modified on Fri, 14 Aug 2026 16:59:35 GMT and is shared under a CC BY 4.0 license and was authored, remixed, and/or curated by Jenny Huang.