September! How quickly this month has made its appearance this year. The heat of the summer is fading away and our days are becoming cooler and shorter, and we are getting closer to everyone’s other favourites-word…snow!
This month’s update is all about Noise at the Worksite and the importance of Visitor Orientations.
Noise at the Worksite
Noise is one of the most common workplace hazards. It is present in many industries and occupations and can be loud enough or long lasting enough to cause permanent hearing loss in workers, often times without them even being aware of it!
Employers must ensure that all measures (as much as reasonably practicable) are in place to reduce noise, and also ensure that workers do not have exposure exceeding the limits specified in Table 1, Schedule 3 of the OHS Code.
If workers are, or may be, exposed to noise above 82 dBA, in a worksite or area, then the employer must ensure that a noise exposure assessment is conducted in accordance with CSA Standard Z107.56-18 – Measurement of Noise Exposure.
Hearing Protection Devices and Fit Testing
There are two common types of hearing protection devices: Earplugs and Earmuffs.
Employers must ensure all hearing devices worn meet the requirements of the CSA Standard Z94.2-14 – Hearing Protection Devices – Performance, Selection, Care and Use and are fit tested to each worker in accordance with the above CSA Standard.
Fit Testing Earplugs and Earmuffs:
The CSA Standard does not specify a universal fit testing method. It will require that the manufacturers specifications must be followed when fit testing. If there are multiple fit testing methods offered in the specifications, employers may select any of those methods.
Visitor Orientations
Do you have a Visitor Orientation and sign in sheet posted at all of your locations? Having a Visitor Orientation is a COR requirement and one of the first items your auditor will be looking for during the observation tour and verifying as being in place.
Visitors are generally unfamiliar with the operations and the potential risks associated with that site. When a visitor comes to site, they have a reasonable expectation of not being injured and as a company you will be responsible for maintaining a safe environment for them. An orientation will encourage visitors to be more aware to the potential hazards around them and take responsibility for their own safety.
- How to report incidents
- Brief procedures for violence and harassment response
- Location of emergency phone numbers and evacuation maps
- Muster Point location
- Emergency Equipment locations (First Aid Kits, Eyewash Station, Fire Extinguishers, etc.)
Having visitors start off safely and on the right foot is key to ensuring their safety while also maintaining your requirements of providing a safe environment for them.
Please contact your Kasa representative for assistance or any questions regarding Noise at the Worksite and Visitor Orientations!