Occupational risk assessment of exposure to ultrasonic noise in the working environment

Project manager: Bożena Smagowska M.Sc. (Eng.)

Project summary:

"The task consisted in an analysis of the methods of measuring and assessing ultrasonic noise in the working environment used in Poland and abroad. The method used so far was used to evaluate employees' exposure to ultrasonic noise at technological workstations where ultrasonic equipment is used: ultrasonic washers, ultrasonic welders, ultrasonic grinders, machinery for embossing documents, new-type haberdashery machinery, and non-technological ultrasonic equipment: textile machinery, bench grinders and machinery that uses compressed air.A new method for measuring and evaluating employees' exposure to ultrasonic noise at workstations was also developed. It follows methods used internationally and the state of the art. It was used as a basis for updating the procedure used so far for measuring ultrasonic noise and for developing a draft standard ""A method of measuring ultrasonic noise at workstations"".A preliminary method of identifying ultrasonic noise was developed. It is based on two indicators, each of which can indicate the presence of ultrasonic noise. Those indicators are determined subjectively on the basis of employees' answers to questions from the developed questionnaire. A computer database on workstations with typical sources of ultrasonic noise was also developed, as were recommendations for technical and organizational prevention and training materials on reducing ultrasonic noise at workstations for employers, management and OSH services."

Unit: Department of Vibroacoustic Hazards

Duration: 01.01.2005 – 31.12.2007