An open-cut mining operation engaged Advitech to carry out a workplace noise assessment focused on the risks associated with tyre deflation systems. These systems release air at pressures of up to 135 PSI. In some cases, this pressure release can persist for more than 30 minutes, creating a significant hazard for workers in nearby workshops and tyre bays.
The assessment was initiated to ensure compliance with the Work Health and Safety Regulation 2017 and to explore engineering controls that could reduce noise exposure without relying solely on hearing protection devices.
Key challenges
Understanding the source and scale of noise is the first step in effective risk management. This project addressed several challenges:
- Uncontrolled venting of high-pressure air raised concerns about excessive noise levels.
- Regulatory compliance required noise levels to remain below Leq,8h 85 dB(A) and Lpeak 140 dB(C).
- The client needed to determine whether hearing protection alone was sufficient or if engineering controls were required.
- Complex operational scenarios, including simultaneous tyre deflations and existing workshop noise, had to be considered.
Technical approach
We know that effective workplace noise assessments must reflect the realities of each site. That’s why our team developed a detailed 3D computer model of the client’s infrastructure to simulate the anticipated noise from high-pressure tyre deflation.
To ensure the assessment was accurate and relevant to real-world conditions, we:
- Assessed noise exposure levels at key worker locations against WHS requirements
- Modelled a range of operational scenarios to identify worst-case exposure levels and inform risk management strategies. These included:
- Varying the duration of air release during tyre deflation
- Comparing tyre deflations that occurred at the same time and at different times throughout the day
- Including busy periods when the site operates at full capacity, with multiple tyre deflations and workshop activities happening at once
- Factoring in background industrial noise from surrounding workshop equipment
To reduce noise exposure and support WHS compliance, we:
- Applied a hierarchy of control, prioritising engineering solutions over personal protective equipment
- Recommended acoustic attenuation products to reduce tyre deflation noise at the source
- Identified the appropriate Class of hearing protection devices (HPDs) where required
- Proposed engineered noise controls that could eliminate the need for HPDs and associated hearing surveillance testing
This approach allowed us to deliver practical, site-specific recommendations that support safer working conditions and long-term compliance with Australian WHS standards.
Outcomes and benefits
Effective workplace noise assessments deliver long-term value. This project resulted in:
- Improved WHS compliance for mining operations
- Reduced reliance on HPDs, lowering long-term health monitoring costs
- Enhanced worker safety through proactive noise management
- Operational insights from advanced acoustic modelling
Concerned about noise risks in your workplace?
Advitech’s acoustics team can help you assess and manage occupational noise exposure with tailored solutions that meet Australian WHS standards. Contact our team for a no-obligation consultation.
