Safety checklist — Excessive noise
Hearing protection and CSTC 2.21 exposure thresholds. Based on Québec's Construction Safety Code (CSTC) and CNESST standards.
Before work
9 items- ✓
Noise level assessed — sound level meter or task-based estimate
ℹ️ Jackhammer ~110 dB, circular saw ~105 dB, nailer ~100 dB
- ✓
Hearing protection per CSTC 2.21 when exposure limits are exceededCritical
ℹ️ Construction site: CSTC 2.21.2 / 2.21.7. “+3 dB = double dose” is not the Code text.
- ✓
Workers trained on correct use of hearing protectors
- ✓
High-noise zone identified and signed (pictogram)
- ✓
Baseline audiogram completed for regularly exposed workers
ℹ️ Hearing surveillance program recommended by CNESST
- ✓
Hearing protection per 2.21.5–2.21.7 in the identified zone
ℹ️ 2.21.7: required if a measured exceedance, or if you cannot talk at ~1 m / impulsive noise.
- ✓
Exposure time per table 2.21.6 if the limits are not yet met
ℹ️ 2.21.4 first at the source. “Rotation” is not the Code text.
- ✓
Low-noise tools used if available (silenced saw, etc.)
- ✓
Breaks in quiet zone to limit daily dose
After work
3 items- ✓
Tinnitus or hearing loss reported immediately
- ✓
Hearing protectors cleaned and inspected — replace worn plugs
- ✓
Exposure duration logged if surveillance program in place
12 verification items — use this checklist on-site with the app
Use on-site — freePDF reports, history and team management in the app
For information only — this is not legal advice. OK Sécurité is an independent company with no affiliation to the CNESST: we are not mandated, endorsed or certified by it. Completing a checklist here does not by itself establish your compliance — your exact obligations depend on your job site and your prevention program. Where there is any discrepancy, the official text published by Légis Québec or the CNESST prevails.
More checklists — Cross-cutting Situations
More safety checklists
Risks and prevention — Excessive noise
Excessive noise exposure causes permanent, irreversible hearing loss. On a construction site, CSTC 2.21.2 sets 85 dBA (LEX,8h) and 140 dBC peak. 2.21.4 requires source controls before protectors. Table 2.21.6 sets the durations — it is not a blanket “+3 dB halves the time” rule. RSST has its own noise section for establishments.
The control hierarchy prioritizes noise reduction at source (quieter tools, enclosures), then distance, then personal hearing protection (plugs, muffs). Periodic audiometry is recommended for regularly exposed workers. Mandatory hearing-protection zones must be signposted.
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