For example, noise-reducing saw blades can reduce noise levels by 50 percent when cutting masonry blocks. Old equipment can be made quieter by simple retrofits, such as adding new mufflers or sound absorbing materials. Check with the manufacturer on ways to do this, or check the MSHA website for information on retrofitting surface mining equipment- much of which is also used in construction. Old equipment is also much quieter when it is well maintained. Noisy equipment should be sited as far away as possible from workers and residents.
Noise levels drop quickly with distance from the source.
These barriers can significantly reduce noise levels and are relatively inexpensive. The Construction Noise Control Partnership is developing a best practices guide explaining how to reduce noise on the jobsite and how to protect workers' hearing. The partnership is also developing standardized methods for measuring noise levels on jobsites in order to create a database of noise measurements. It will also be organizing a session on noise control at the National Conference on Ergonomics, Safety, and Health in Construction - to be held in May 2002 in Chicago. As awareness of the impact that noise has on our industry and lives grows, we hope more will join us in the campaign for quieter construction sites.