Alberta OHS is Focusing on Occupational Noise Assessments. What You Need to Know
In Alberta's industrial landscape, protecting workers from noise-induced hearing loss isn't just good practice – it's a non-negotiable legal requirement. With significant updates to Alberta's Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) Code, Part 16: Noise, effective since March 31, 2023, and ongoing proactive inspections by OHS officers, ensuring your workplace is compliant is more critical than ever.
Why Noise Assessments Are Essential
Excessive workplace noise is a pervasive and often underestimated hazard. Prolonged exposure can lead to irreversible noise-induced hearing loss, one of the most common occupational diseases in Canada. But the risks extend beyond hearing loss, impacting:
Communication: Difficulty hearing warnings or instructions, increasing accident risk.
Productivity: Fatigue, stress, and reduced concentration.
Employee Well-being: Negative impacts on overall health and quality of life.
Legal & Financial Ramifications: Non-compliance can lead to ill-health, fines, and costly WCB claims.
An occupational noise assessment is the foundational step in identifying, evaluating, and controlling these hazards, ensuring a safe and legally compliant work environment.
Alberta OHS: A Heightened Focus on Noise Compliance
Alberta OHS officers are actively conducting proactive inspections across various industries. While their focus areas can shift, the recent, substantial changes to Part 16 of the OHS Code mean noise exposure compliance is highly likely to be a key area of scrutiny during their worksite visits, including:
The 82 dBA Trigger: Since March 31, 2023, if workers are, or may be, exposed to noise at or above 82 dBA Lex, a noise exposure assessment conducted by a competent person is mandatory. Officers will be checking if these assessments have been performed.
Comprehensive Noise Assessments (CSA Standard Z107.56-18): Assessments must be conducted using proper methodology and calibrated equipment (Sound Level Meters, Noise Dosimeters) as per the updated CSA Standard Z107.56-18. They’ll want to see detailed reports including sound level readings, dates, tasks evaluated, and equipment used.
Adherence to the 85 dBA Limit: While 82 dBA triggers an assessment, worker exposure must not exceed 85 dBA Lex over an 8-hour shift. If levels are above 85 dBA, officers will look for the right controls in place.
Mandatory Hearing Protection Fit Testing: A new requirement in Alberta is that all hearing protection devices (HPDs) must be properly fit-tested to ensure they provide adequate protection. OHS officers will be verifying that this critical step has been taken.
Robust Noise Management Programs (Annual Review): If excessive noise is present, a documented noise management program is required. OHS officers will be reviewing these programs, and specifically checking for annual reviews to ensure effectiveness, as per the updated regulations.
Hierarchy of Controls: Expect officers to scrutinize your efforts to implement noise control measures, prioritizing engineering controls (e.g., quieter equipment, enclosures, dampening) and administrative controls (e.g., job rotation, reduced exposure time) before relying solely on PPE.
Record Keeping: Employers must retain noise assessment records for at least 3 years. OHS officers will request these documents during inspections.
Don't Get Caught Off Guard: Proactive Steps for Alberta Businesses
Remaining compliant with Alberta's evolving OHS noise regulations is crucial for worker safety and to avoid penalties. Ithaca Health Ltd. is helping businesses across Alberta meet these requirements.
Our Expertise in Alberta OHS Noise Compliance Includes:
Noise Assessments: Conducted by competent professionals in adherence to Alberta OHS Code Part 16 and CSA standards.
Precision Equipment: Utilizing calibrated Sound Level Meters and Noise Dosimeters for accurate data collection.
Customized Noise Control Solutions: Developing practical, effective strategies focusing on engineering and administrative controls first.
Mandatory Hearing Protection Fit Testing: Ensuring your team is provided with optimal protection.
Hearing Conservation Program Development: Guiding you through the creation, implementation, and annual review of comprehensive programs.
OHS Compliance Guidance: Interpreting complex regulations into clear, actionable steps for your business.
Partner with Ithaca Health for Peace of Mind
No matter which industry you’re in, if you have potential noise hazards, an up-to-date noise assessment is an investment in your people and your business. With Alberta OHS maintaining vigilance on workplace safety, now is the time to ensure your noise management program is robust and compliant.
Contact Ithaca Health today for a no-obligation consultation. Let us help you protect your workforce and confidently demonstrate compliance during the next OHS inspection.