Document ID: chunk:federal_register_of_legislation:F2016L00417:body:0:p28
Version: federal_register_of_legislation:F2016L00417
Segment Type: other
Provision Reference: 
Character Range: 71415–74435

to exceed the exposure standard of LAeq,8h 85 dB(A). Following such exposure, other work activities must not contribute to further noise exposure.

Unprotected workers and others close to the blasting process may also be exposed to excessive noise.

Control measures
    * Using an alternative, quieter method to clean or prepare surfaces, where possible
    * Isolating workers and other persons from the noise source by:
          + using blast chambers
          + relocating or enclosing noisy equipment - blast cabinets, air compressors, and grit pots can be located in sound proof enclosures or separate rooms away from the work area. In the open air, mobile enclosures lined internally with sound absorbent material could be used at locations where noisy work has to be carried out and other people may be affected. Such enclosures could reduce operator exposure
            by about five to 20 dB(A) depending on their construction.
    * Using engineering controls, for example:
          + reducing the amount of pressure used to abrade the substrate
          + improving mufflers on blast pots
          + silencers on intake and exhaust systems
          + baffles and muffling materials in air supply hoses for blast helmets
          + sound attenuating material on walls and ceilings, and
          + sound transmission barriers around compressors.
    * Using administrative controls, for example:
          + undertaking abrasive blasting out of normal working hours to minimise noise exposure to other workers
          + stopping other work and clearing people from a site while blasting is taking place
          + establish a rotation system for work to be carried out in shifts
          + establishing exclusion zones where noise exposure levels are in excess of the exposure standard and restricting entry  to only persons with adequate hearing protectors
          + regularly maintaining abrasive blasting plant and equipment
          + providing quiet areas for rest breaks for workers exposed to noisy work, and
          + limit the time workers spend in noisy areas by moving them to quiet work before their daily noise exposure levels exceed the exposure standard.
    * Providing personal hearing protectors such as ear plugs, ear canal caps, ear muffs,
      and hearing protective helmets. Further information on requirements relating to PPE can be found in  AS/NZS 1269.3: Occupational Noise management – Hearing protector program.
Further guidance on how to identify, assess, control and monitor exposure to noise is available
in the Code of Practice: Managing Noise and Preventing Hearing Loss at Work.

    4.2 Heat

Heat is also a common hazard associated with carrying out abrasive blasting. Workers are at risk of heat strain due to working in hot, poorly ventilated or confined spaces and the type of personal protective equipment that is worn, for example blast helmets, protective suits or leather coveralls.

Heat strain is a serious medical condition which could lead to