In 2021, Bill 59 modernized the occupational health and safety regime. As part of this, the Regulation respecting occupational health and safety (RSST) was amended to limit workers' noise exposure to 85 dBA for 8 hours, with a bisection factor of 3 dBA*. The RSST also establishes certain guidelines for measuring noise in the workplace. But what are they?
First of all, the RROHS requires compliance with specific standards when taking measurements, such as CSA Z107.56-13 - Measurement of noise exposure and ISO 9612 - Acoustics - Determination of noise exposure in the workplace - Expert method. Although each of these standards has distinct elements, they are broadly equivalent. They define, among other things, how to carry out measurements, the appropriate equipment, the measurement parameters to be used, data analysis methods and report writing.
Then, in line with the standards mentioned, the RSST stipulates the use of certain equipment for noise measurement, notably the sound level meter and the dosimeter. The sound level meter, which can be used to take punctual or prolonged sound measurements, is the instrument of choice for establishing a sound map of the workplace. The dosimeter, on the other hand, is a device worn by the worker during his or her shift, ideal for measuring daily exposure dose and verifying compliance with regulations. It's important to note that regulations require the measurement of daily noise dose, while mapping, while providing essential information, is not mandatory under the RROHS.
Finally, the RROHS sets out legal obligations in terms of deadlines for noise measurements. As soon as a workstation presents a risk of exceeding regulatory noise limits (following a complaint from a worker, for example, or a change in the workstation that increases noise levels), the employer must, within one year, carry out noise measurements for that position. Alternatively, the employer may choose to implement measures to eliminate or reduce noise at source, without carrying out the measurement. Once these measures have been implemented, however, the employer must carry out a noise measurement within 30 days. Finally, when a workstation exceeds regulatory limits, the employer must reassess noise exposure every 5 years to identify ways of eliminating or reducing noise.
These provisions aim to ensure a safe and healthy working environment for all workers.
* For more information on the bisection factor, see text
"A brief history of noise regulations"
