NEBOSH CC Dust & Noise in Construction 3

Question 1

What is the Exposure Limit Value (ELV) for noise that must not be exceeded under the Control of Noise at Work Regulations 2005?

Accepted Answer

87 dB(A) daily or weekly average, taking account of any hearing protection worn

Answer

The ELV for noise is 87 dB(A) as a daily or weekly average, taking into account the attenuation provided by hearing protection. This is the absolute limit that must not be exceeded, even with hearing protection worn.

Question 2

What type of hearing loss is caused by prolonged exposure to excessive noise?

Accepted Answer

Noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL), which is permanent and irreversible

Answer

Noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) is caused by prolonged exposure to excessive noise levels. The damage to hair cells in the cochlea is cumulative, permanent and irreversible. There is no medical treatment that restores lost hearing.

Question 3

What is tinnitus?

Accepted Answer

A persistent ringing, buzzing or hissing sound in the ears not caused by an external source

Answer

Tinnitus is a condition where a person experiences sounds (ringing, buzzing, hissing, whistling) in the ears or head with no external source. It can be caused by noise damage and may be temporary or permanent. It significantly affects quality of life.

Question 4

Which type of construction equipment typically generates the highest noise levels?

Accepted Answer

Pneumatic breakers, angle grinders and disc cutters

Answer

Pneumatic breakers (jackhammers) and angle grinders are among the loudest tools on construction sites, often exceeding 110 dB(A). These levels can cause permanent hearing damage within a very short exposure time without hearing protection.

Question 5

What hierarchy of controls should be applied to reduce noise exposure on construction sites?

Accepted Answer

Eliminate the noise source, substitute with quieter equipment, engineer out the noise, use administrative controls, then PPE (hearing protection)

Answer

The hierarchy for noise control mirrors the general hierarchy: eliminate the source, substitute quieter equipment or processes, engineer controls (enclosures, barriers, damping), administrative controls (rotation, scheduling noisy work when fewer people are present), and finally hearing protection as a last resort.

NEBOSH Construction Certificate Practice Test

NEBOSH Construction Certificate Practice Test

NEBOSH CC Dust & Noise in Construction 3