Effective Risk Assessment Checklist

The following is an outline of the key elements and features that you should expect to be included in any practical and effective noise assessment report, whether in-house or via a consultant.

• Factories

Include noise level figures on a CAD drawing or table or in a database for mobile plant and equipment. Do not use reference numbers on plans linked to tables of noise data – this is both inefficient and annoying…

• Mobile Plant (construction etc)

Put noise levels into a database/spreadsheet.

• Include the minimum data for each measurement point: Leq, peak – plus octave bands only when absolutely necessary

• Identify of areas where personnel are likely to be exposed above each Action Values, provide estimated LEP,d values for typical employees and assess how the dose is acquired (sources)

• Evaluate effectiveness of current risk management procedures and where legal requirements are not met

• Include a Noise Control Audit of the options to reduce noise levels using current best practice. This should include the options, costs and estimated reductions to provide an accurate cost/benefit analysis as the basis for planning an effective risk reduction programme. Evaluate any existing noise control measures as part of this audit.

• Generate an Action Plan that includes: short term measures (PPE zones and signs; types and availability of PPE; employee training requirements). Longer term measures (noise control programme; Buy Quiet policy; company procedures / responsibilities; health surveillance). This should be short and specific with a implementation timescales.