Other Vibration Effects Besides Noise

Noise is the most common vibration hazard however, vibration can have other adverse effects. High-intensity, low-fiequency sounds can cause the skull, other bones, and internal organs to become injured. Resonances will occur at certain frequencies so that these painful or Injurious effects become much more noticeable. Vibration is transmitted more easily through solid materials than through air. It may happen, therefore, that a heavy piece of equipment can transmit vibrations through a structure, such as a frame and flooring of a building, to other equipment. Employees in contact with this equipment may become aware of and be affected by the transmitted vibration. 

Engineers and designers should select equipment for installation which has low vibration and noise characteristics. They can require permissible maximum noise levels in specifications for new equipment. They can determine whether an operation, process, or piece of equipment that is noisy can be avoided or eliminated by use of a quieter one. Equipment that might vibrate should be mounted on firm, solid foundations. If equipment vibrates, they can determine whether or not its characteristics can be changed by use of devices such as dynamic dampers, rubber or plastic bumpers, flexible mountings and couplings, or resilient flooring. Where vibrations of fixed equipment cannot be eliminated, mount the equipment on vibration isolators to prevent transmission of motion. 

Noise is unwanted sound. It is a form of vibration conducted through solids, liquids, or gases. Noise can startle, annoy, and disrupt concentration, sleep, or relaxation. It can interrupt communication and interfere with job performance and safety, and it can lead to hearing loss and circulatory problems. Noise levels greater than 90 dBA should be avoided. Workers must wear hearing protection if workplace noise levels are greater than 90 dBA. 

Occupational exposure to loud sounds is the most common cause of. 

The maximum level of sound that a human can tolerate without experiencing pain is  

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