Noise levels in connection with work places are an area of increased focus. There is a huge difference in how much an individual is affected just as there is a difference in the source of the noise. Even quiet conversations and music can be an irritation where as a deep rumble from a ventilation system will barely be noticed even though the sound pressure level is high.
Legislation, stipulations and regulations
Legislation concerning noise levels in work places mainly deals with noise which will damage hearing.
Stipulations to noise levels in connection with work places are indicated in the table below.
Limit | Value | Consequence | How high it sounds | | The limit for the total amount of noise for a work day of 8 hours. | 85dB(A) | Hearing protection made mandatory, check-up by medical clinic. | 80-85dB (A) can compares with two people shouting at each other in a sitting room or the noise level in a very busy street. | | Action value for the total amount of noise for a work day of 8 hours. | 80dB(A) | Hearing protection offered, hearing test. | | Limit for peak load, impulses. | 137dB(C) | Hearing protection made mandatory, check-up by medical clinic. | 137dB(C) is the sound of a hammer on an anvil, a shot from a rifle, a cane smacked on a table, a plate that hits a table and breaks. | | Action value for peak load, impulses. | 135dB(C) | Hearing protection offered, hearing test. |
""Protection against noise levels in connection with work places." Work Inspector standard No. 63, dated 6th February 2006.
http://www.at.dk/sw19871.asp
It should be noted that mandatory orders can be given even though noise limits have been complied with. This happens where unnecessary noise is present in the work place which can be removed.
"Standard concerning legislation for the work environment." Ministry of work law No. 268 dated 18th March 2005.
http://www.at.dk/sw23308.asp
§21 and §77 are mandatory orders concerning consultation and altering conditions.
Consultancy services offered by midtconsult a/s 
See: Noise levels and the work environment- log book
Midtconsult have equipment to register noise levels in the work place, to determine the acoustic levels in a room and to take readings for the individual employee over a period of several days.
Whether the employees are situated in day care nurseries, on building sites or in industry it is possible to investigate work procedures and work routines which supplemented with an objective noise level reading, will give a precise picture whether the stipulated limit for noise levels has been exceeded. Even more important one can get to know where and how the limit has been exceeded. It is therefore possible to optimise a solution both in relation to noise, economy, running and employee satisfaction.
Return to: Acoustic and noise level consultancy
| 
