Noise from the Logistics Warehouse

Here were three Similar Exposure Groups (SEGs) that were assessed within the warehouse which included:

• Forklift drivers
• Truck Driver
• Logistics warehouse packers

Sound level measurements were taken with a dosimeter that were attached to the forklift driver’s shoulder. The forklift driver wears the small dosimeter over the length of a shift to measure the average noise levels, to compare against the national exposure standards

The Main Noise Exposed SEG – Forklift Drivers

The noise form the forklifts is mostly due to the warning tones when the forklifts are reversing. The warning tones may be around 90-95 dB(A). Even though this may be short bursts of duration, when averaged it can is generally around the 85 dB(A) mark. This means that the noise exposure is significant and controls need to be put in place

Hearing Protection when using Forklifts in a Warehouse

As the noise exposure needs to be reduced to be below 85 dB(A), hearing protection is generally supplied; however it is generally the wrong type. Both over ear or in-ear hearing protection that is commonly provided is Class 5. This will over-protect the forklift driver and can be a safety concern in itself. If a forklift driver in a logistics warehouse has noise reduced through hearing protection, then they may not hear people or other warning tones, causing an accident.

The Right Hearing Protection for Warehouse Staff & Forklift Drivers

If hearing protection is to be provided to forklift drivers within a logistics warehouse, then it needs to be of the right classification. This will generally be Class 2 hearing protection, to allow the forklift driver to still hear warning tones and communicate with other people effectively. The only way to tell what the right level of hearing protection is, is to have a detailed noise assessment undertaken.

It isn’t just as simple providing hearing protection of the warehouse staff; sufficient training and instruction also needs to be undertaken. This is particularly true for ear plugs, where it is quite common to find that warehouse staff do not know how to insert the earplugs properly.

The perfect time for noise awareness training is during audiometric testing. Audiometric testing is required every two years in accordance with the Australian Standards AS/NZS 1269.4 Audiometry Assessment. Ideally it should be conducted more frequently, on an annual basis, particularly if there are ototoxic agents or significant hand arm vibration.

Other risk associated with forklift driving is Whole Body Vibration and driving postures. This can cause musculoskeletal disorders and is dependant to a large degree on how smooth the floors are.

For a detailed noise survey or audiometric testing, please contact Safe Environments, based in Sydney and Melbourne.