Institute of Acoustics Certificate of Competence in Workplace Noise Assessment

Learning outcomes

• Gain practical skills on how to conduct a noise risk assessment
• Gain an understanding of the legal requirements in relation to noise at work.

This course is divided into six key areas:

Basic Concepts of Noise

You’ll receive an overview of the basic definitions and principles of sound, noise indices and units, as well as basic calculations involving decibels.

Measurement and Instrumentation for Noise Assessment

You’ll go through the basic features and properties of an integrating sound level meter, calibration requirments, and the properties of a dosimeter.

Noise Exposure Assessment

You’ll review measurement strategies, including the limitations of data collection, the calculation of personal noise exposure levels and action planning.

Hearing, Hearing Loss Measurement and Protection

You’ll focus on the structure of the ear and the hearing mechanism. In addition, you’ll review hearing defects and their social implications. You’ll also look at properties and types of hearing protector, their limitations and advantages, and their performance.

Overview of Legal Aspects

It’s vital to be up to date with legislation, so you will review the Control of Noise at Work regulations 2005 and relevant Guidance documents.

Noise Reduction Techniques

You’ll look at the basic methods of noise control in the workplace, from its source to its transmission path and finally to the receiver.