Noise can be a health hazard in the workplace. That's why Royal Roads University controls noise where possible to manage our staff, faculty and contractors' exposure to noise. And we regularly test the hearing of those who may be exposed to excessive noise.
Here's some of what we do to protect your hearing:
Noise control
We test noise levels in all work sites such as shops and sheds, as well as noise generated by vehicles and equipment.
The university tries to engineer worksites or equipment so noise levels are acceptable. When doing so isn't possible, we mandate and supply hearing protection to our staff.
Warning signs are posted in areas where noise levels exceed the 85-decibel (dBa) daily exposure limit. In these areas, hearing protection is mandatory.
Hearing tests
If you work in an area of the university where noise levels may be excessive, you'll undergo annual hearing tests, arranged by RRU.
Your hearing test will be conducted by a qualified technician who will:
- provide you and Human Resources with the test results
- advise you on the proper use of hearing protection
- send your test results to WorkSafeBC
Improving the hearing-conservation program
RRU's hearing-conservation initiatives are audited annually by the Joint Occupational Health and Safety Committee. The committee can also measure noise levels as required.
The audit reviews:
- best practices for noise measurement
- effectiveness of staff education and training about hearing conservation
- adequacy of our noise-control measures
- type and use of hearing protection
- results of hearing tests
Do you have a concern about noise in your workplace?
If you have a concern about noise in your workplace, speak with your supervisor or manager. They'll take the next step and contact the environmental safety officer.