OSHA Exploring Reducing Exposure Limits for Noise in Construction Standard

Current construction noise exposure limits set at 90 decibels; many recommend it be lowered to 85 decibels

June 16, 2016

Business Insurance

The U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has started the process for a potential more protective Noise in Construction standard.

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The current standard has permissible exposure limits for construction noise set at 90 A-weighted decibels over an eight-hour period. National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) recommends an 85 A-weighted decibel exposure limit.

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OSHA will likely issue a request for information in November to gauge the feasibility and effectiveness of adopting on lower noise exposure limit.

(more on OSHA's plans to revamp its noise in construction standard...)

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