Noise can be many things, including continuous, variable and intermittent. Noise can be described as being intermittent if there is a combination of quiet periods and considerably more noisy periods. Impact noise refers to a short burst of loud noise that lasts for less than a second.
Intermittent noise contrasts to continuous noise, in which noise continues at a similar level for a duration of time.
Areas of intermittent noise, which are exposed to periods of quiet combined with louder periods, often require intermittent noise measurement to be conducted. Accurately assessing and measuring intermittent noise, will determine areas in which noise exposure is likely to be hazardous and have the potential to be distracting for those in proximity of the intermittent noise or even be potentially damaging to hearing health.
Most manufacturing and industry working environments are home to intermittent noise. Noise generated from deliveries coming into yards and machinery being used, can quickly be followed by quieter periods in these types of environments.
For those operating in environments that are exposed to intermittent noise, it is important that regular and accurate intermittent noise measurement is carried out.
Highly accurate and efficient intermittent noise measurement can be achieved by using an instantaneous noise measurement meter.
Unlike an Leq, also known as an Average Sound Level, as it measures sound over a period of time and gives an average reading, an instantaneous noise measurement meter gives an instant reading of noise levels being created in a specific space. Whilst average sound level meters can be an effective tool for the measurement of continuous noise, an instantaneous noise measurement meter can be the right device for intermittent noise measurement.
Basic sound level meters that pick up the soundwaves produced in an area and convert them into a digital reading in decibels, can be adequately sufficient for noise assessments that need to be carried out quickly. These simple, lightweight and easy-to-use instantaneous noise measurement meters can be ideal for instantaneous or intermittent noise measurement.
For occupational health and safety reasons, it is imperative noise measurement is regularly conducted as part of a noise control programme. Accurate intermittent noise measurement ensures organisations operating within environments in which noise can be intermittent and ‘up and down’, identify locations where noise could be a problem.
Failing to use instruments such as an instantaneous noise measurement meter and regularly carrying out intermittent noise measurement, can result in employees’ hearing being damaged and an organisation running the risk of being prosecuted for health and safety negligence.
If noise levels are shown to be too loud through intermittent noise measurement, organisations can take the necessary action to reduce the noise levels and help protect the hearing of employees.