- Occupational Safety & Health Association (OSHA)
- California Occupational Safety & Health Association (Cal/OSHA)
- The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH)
Sound Monitoring
California employers must conduct sound monitoring when noise levels may exceed permissible limits. CDMS performs comprehensive noise assessments using calibrated equipment to identify areas of concern. Our detailed reports include recommendations for controls to protect employee hearing and ensure compliance.
Regulatory Bodies
Who Needs Sound Monitoring Services:
Any facility where there is a potential that sound levels are exceeding action levels are required to do testing.
Regulation Reference
- 29 CFR 1910.95
- 8 CCR 5095-5100
- 29 CFR 1926.52
What our service provides:
CDMS will conduct preliminary noise monitoring to determine if noise levels at the Client’s facility exceed Occupational Safety & Health Association (OSHA) Permissible Noise Exposure Levels. This phase of monitoring will be used to determine whether the Client’s facility has noise levels that require more extensive testing or corrective actions.
CDMS will be conducting the monitoring in the work environment during a typical work day when usual noise levels are known to be present. The sampling areas will be identified by the Client’s staff and the CDMS Project Manager.
Upon completion of the monitoring a report will be prepared that outlines the following:
- Tabulated results of the monitoring in each area.
- Mapping of the noise levels in the affected areas
- Actions required if the noise levels are above the Occupational Safety & Health Association (OSHA) limits
Solutions for Sound Monitoring Services in California
At CDMS, we provide effective solutions for sound monitoring services, designed to meet the needs of industries and businesses throughout California. Our approach addresses the challenges associated with sound monitoring, helping you achieve and maintain compliance and operational efficiency.
Our suite of services includes:
- EHS Compliance Audits: Conducting evaluations to ensure compliance and identify areas for improvement.
- Environmental Compliance Support: Providing assistance and guidance to help you navigate sound monitoring requirements.
- EHS Training: Offering employee training to enhance your team’s understanding and management of sound monitoring & help you save on worker’s compensation insurance costs.
- Reporting and Permitting: Preparing reports compliant with regulatory standards and obtaining permits from government agencies.
These services are provided with professionalism and expertise, ensuring that sound monitoring aspects are managed efficiently across California.
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When is sound monitoring required?
If noise levels are suspected to exceed action levels or regulatory limits.
What equipment is used to measure sound?
Dosimeters, sound level meters, octave band analyzers.
What are action levels for noise exposure?
85 dBA as an 8-hour TWA, 50% of Permissible Exposure Limits (PELs).
What are the Occupational Safety & Health Association (OSHA) Permissible Exposure Limits (PELs)?
90 dBA for 8 hours, 95 dBA for 4 hours, etc.
What data is collected during sound surveys?
Noise sources, levels, variations, employee exposures, octave band analysis.
Where should dosimeters be placed on workers?
Shirt collar to represent noise entering the ears.
How long are monitoring sessions?
Long enough to calculate 8-hour time-weighted average (TWA) exposures.
What factors can affect instrument accuracy?
Wind screens, calibration, interference.
When should monitoring be repeated or continued?
Annually, whenever processes change, or results approach action levels.
What information is included in sound survey reports?
Methods, maps, results, interpretations, recommendations.
What training is required for personnel conducting monitoring?
Proper use of instruments, procedures, and interpretation of results. For more information please visit our Hearing Conservation Training section.
What are common sound monitoring mistakes?
Improper microphone placement, lack of calibration, bad instrument choice.
Who should review and interpret the results?
A qualified professional like an industrial hygienist. Contact Us to get support or request Sound Monitoring. Our skilled team of EH&S specialists is ready to assist you.
What hearing protection may be needed?
Selection depends on noise levels and exposures.
Do employees need training on sound monitoring results?
Yes, they must be informed of the results.
Which regulatory agency enforces noise monitoring?
Federal Occupational Safety & Health Association (OSHA) and state plan agencies like Occupational Safety & Health Association (Cal/OSHA).
How can sound monitoring findings improve hearing conservation?
Identify needs for controls, protection, and hearing testing.
How long must sound monitoring records be kept?
At least 2-3 years is advisable. 30+ years recommended.
What are the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) noise measurement methods?
The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) Manual of Analytical Methods, Ch. 6.
How can equipment noise output be determined?
By taking measurements at the operator’s position per ANSI standards.