HS&E Operatives practice question: Noise and vibration (1 of 7)
B. Occupational health A free question from our original HS&E Operatives practice exam. Try it, then open the answer to see why each option is right or wrong.
You are working near a road saw. To talk to your workmate, who is about 2 metres away, you have to shout.
What does this tell you?
Choose one answer.
AA. Noise is only harmful if your ears hurt afterwards
BB. The noise could be damaging your hearing
CC. Your workmate needs to have their hearing tested
DD. The noise is only a problem if it lasts a full shift
Show the answer and explanation
Answer: B
A. Wrong: Wrong. Noise damage is usually painless. Ringing or dull hearing after work are warning signs, and the damage is permanent.
B. Right: Right. HSE says that if you have to shout to talk to someone 2 metres away, the noise is probably 85 dB or more. At that level hearing protection must be provided and worn.
C. Wrong: Wrong. The problem is the noise level, not your workmate. Anyone working in that noise for long is at risk.
D. Wrong: Wrong. Hearing damage builds up over time, but at this level even a couple of hours a day can harm your hearing.
Explanation
If you have to shout to be heard 2 metres away, the noise is probably loud enough to damage your hearing. Wear your hearing protection and ask about quieter ways of working.