Safety checklist — Excessive noise
Hearing protection and exposure thresholds. Compliant with 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 selected by level: plugs (NRR 25+) and/or muffsCritical
ℹ️ OHS Reg: 85 dBA limit over 8 h — noise doubles every +3 dB
- ✓
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 worn AT ALL TIMES in identified zone
- ✓
Worker rotation if prolonged exposure > 85 dBA
- ✓
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
More checklists — Cross-cutting Situations
More safety checklists
Risks and prevention — Excessive noise
Excessive noise exposure causes permanent, irreversible hearing loss. RSST sets the daily exposure limit at 85 dB(A) over 8 hours. For every 3 dB increase, permitted exposure time halves. An angle grinder typically generates 100–110 dB; a pneumatic nailer 95–105 dB.
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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