# Construction Noise

Healthy humans can hear audible sound with a range of 20 Hz to 20,000 Hz with a maximum intensity at 3,000 Hz.

- Canonical URL: https://pavementinteractive.org/reference-desk/pavement-management/impacts/construction-noise/
- Last updated: 2018-09-10
- Review: reviewed by licensed professional engineers on the previous Pavement Interactive site, where reviewers were not recorded by name

## Noise Basics

Healthy humans can hear audible sound with a range of 20 Hz to 20,000 Hz with a maximum intensity at 3,000 Hz. (Hz = Hertz, or cycles per second.) Frequencies below 20 Hz are called “infrasound” and above 20,000 Hz “ultrasound.” The numerical magnitude of a sound typically expressed as sound pressure level in decibles, abbreviated dB.

### Distance

Distance is important, since the intensity of sound decreases inversely as the square of the distance from the source.

Δ Sound Pressure Level =

$$= 10\log\left[\frac{r_0}{r_1}\right]^2$$

Example

- r₀ = initial radius from sound source
- r₁ = second radius from sound source

and if r₁ = 2r₀ then

$$\Delta \mathit{SPL} = 10\log\left[\frac{r_0}{2r_0}\right]^2 = -6\ \mathrm{dB}$$

### Adding Sounds

Typically, several sources of sound occur at the same time and is not a linear function. For example, adding one 60 dB sound to a second 60 dB sound adds to 63 dB. The formula follows:

$$\mathit{SPL}_{\mathit{Total}} = 10\log\sum\nolimits_{i=1}^{n} 10^{(\mathit{SPL}_i)/10}$$

The calculation for two 60 dB sounds is:

$$\mathit{SPL}_{\mathit{Total}} = 10\log\sum_{i=1}^{2}\left[10^{60/10} + 10^{60/10}\right] = 63\ \mathrm{dB}$$

### Energy Equivalent Sound

The Energy Equivalent Sound, or $$L_{eq}$$ represents the same energy as the time-varying sound over the measurement period; essentially an average. Some common time scales associated with $$L_{eq}$$ are 24 hr, 1 hr, 1 minute, one day or night.

Formula:

$$L_{eq} = 10\log\left[\frac{1}{t_2 - t_1}\int_{t_1}^{t_2}\frac{p^2(t)}{p_0^2}\,dt\right]$$

Where

- t₁ = start time for measurement, and
- t2 = end time for measurement.

![Energy Equivalent Sound](https://pavementinteractive.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/Leqgraph.jpg)

*Figure 1.* Energy Equivalent Sound

## Sound Pressure and Decibles

To avoid expressing sound or noise in terms of Pascals, Pa, the decibel scale is used. The scale uses a hearing threshold of 2.0x10⁻⁵ Pa. Sound Pressure Level (SPL) can be calculated by using the following equation:

$$= 10\log_{10}\left[\frac{P^2}{P_0^2}\right]$$

Where

- P = the measured sound pressure level
- P₀ = the reference sound pressure, which is 20μPa or 2.0x10-5 Pa or 2.9x10-9 psi.

This gives a range of 0 to 120 dB (120 dB is the approximate threshold of pain).

Sound pressure typically ranges from 20 μPa to 20,000,000 μPa (0.0029 psi)

**Table 1.** Range of Sound Pressures

| Source of Sound/Noise | Approximate Sound Pressure in µPa |
| --- | --- |
| Launching of the Space Shuttle | 2,000,000,000 |
| Full Symphony Orchestra | 2,000,000 |
| Diesel Freight Train at High Speed at 25 m | 200,000 |
| Normal Conversation | 20,000 |
| Soft Whispering at 2 m in Library | 2,000 |
| Unoccupied Broadcast Studio | 200 |
| Softest Sound Human can Hear | 20 |
| Source: Environmental Protection Department, Government of Hong Kong. |  |

Using the following table, sound pressures in dB can be qualitatively compared to other sound pressure scales.

**Table 2.** Sound Pressures in Decibels

| Source | dB |
| --- | --- |
| Threshold of hearing | 0 |
| Rustling leaves | 20 |
| Quiet whisper at 3 ft. | 30 |
| Quiet street | 50 |
| Inside car | 70 |
| Diesel truck | 100 |
| Jet at 100 ft. | 130 |

According to the "Fundamentals and Abatement of Highway Traffic Noise" (FHWA, 1973), a sound level change of 1 dB can barely be detected by humans, while changes of 2 to 3 dB are barely noticeable. Also,

- Change of 5 dB, readily noticeable.
- Change of 10 dB perceived as a doubling in loudness.
- Change of 20 dB represents a dramatic change.
- Change of 40 dB represents the difference between a faintly audible sound and a very load sound.

### A-Weighting Scale

The way the ear responds to sound is not proportional to sound intensity but nearly proportional to the log of sound intensity - it depends on the frequency of the sound. The human ear has peak response around 2,500 to 3,000 Hz and a relatively low response at low frequencies. To account for this, sound weighting schemes have been developed, the most common being the “A-weighting” scale.

The average person perceives a change in sound level of about 10 dB as a doubling or halving the sound’s loudness. Table 3, below, shows a relationship between dBA and “noise loudness” levels.

- 70 to 80 dB: 2x as loud
- 70 to 90 dB: 4x as loud
- 70 to 100 dB: 8x as loud etc.

![Table 3 from a noise analysis report entitled “Tijuana River Valley Regional Park, Trails and Habitat Enhancement Project,” San Diego Dept of Public Works, Prepared by Kimley-Horn and Associates, Inc. July 2005](https://pavementinteractive.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/NoiseTable3.jpg)

*Figure 2.*

Source: Table 3 from a noise analysis report entitled “Tijuana River Valley Regional Park, Trails and Habitat Enhancement Project,” San Diego Dept of Public Works, Prepared by Kimley-Horn and Associates, Inc. July 2005

Sound pressure levels for the lower and upper portions of frequency are reduced before being combined into one single sound pressure level value. Designated dBA or dB(A). More weight is given to frequencies starting at 1,000 Hz.

![Sound Pressure Levels](https://pavementinteractive.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/AWeightScale.jpg)

*Figure 3.* Sound Pressure Levels

## Construction Noise Facts

Construction noise comes from equipment and activities. These include motors running, tool use, and impact, among other things. Hearing loss is common among construction workers.

Hearing loss is gradual, so it may not be noticeable until the damage is already done. The ability to hear higher pitch is lost first, while the first loss that people tend to notice is the loss of the ability to hear speech. Hearing loss is also dangerous - think about what might happen if a person can't hear someone shout or the sound of equipment behind them.

Noise can also cause tinnitis (ringing in the ears), tiredness, stress, and nervousness. Severe tinnitus can disturb the ability to sleep, and cause irritability and depression. Excessive noise raises blood pressure. Impact noises over 140 dB cause immediate nerve damage to the ear.

- Noise damages hearing based on two factors: (1) level of exposure and (2) noise intensity

- Exchange rate:(as stated by OSHA [http://www.ccohs.ca/oshanswers/phys_agents/exposure_can.html](http://www.ccohs.ca/oshanswers/phys_agents/exposure_can.html)) "As the sound level increases above the criterion level, Lc, the allowed exposure time must be decreased. The allowed maximum exposure time is calculated by using an exchange rate, also called a "dose-trading relation" or "trading ratio." The exchange rate is the amount by which the permitted sound level may increase if the exposure time is halved."

## Noise Reduction

The Noise Reduction Rating, NRR, is a single number which is required by law to be shown on the label of each hearing protector sold in the US (40 CFR, Part 211, Subpart B, Hearing Protective Devices).

![Examples of Hearing Protection](https://pavementinteractive.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/Sample_hearing_protection.gif)

*Figure 4.* Examples of Hearing Protection

[1] Image courtesy of www.hocksproducts.com: 1) foam earplugs 2) molded earplug 3) earmuffs 4) tapered earplug

For A-weighted measurements: Protected dBA = Unprotected dBA – [NRR – 7]

Why – 7? This correction factor is used to account for the de-emphasis of low-frequency energy inherent to the A-weighting scale.

Example: Protector rated at 17 dB and used in a environment noise level of 95 dBA. The noise entering the ear would be expected to be about 95 – [17 – 7] = 85 dBA

![Typical NRR Label. Recall that you deduct 7 dBA from the NRR shown on the label, or, in this case, NRR = 29 – 7 = 22](https://pavementinteractive.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/NRR.jpg)

*Figure 5.* Typical NRR Label. Recall that you deduct 7 dBA from the NRR shown on the label, or, in this case, NRR = 29 – 7 = 22

Typical equipment and their associated NRRs:

- Ear plugs: NRR = 29

![Ear plugs: NRR](https://pavementinteractive.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/Tinyearplugs.jpg)

*Figure 6.*

- Headset: NRR = 22

![Headset](https://pavementinteractive.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/Tinyheadset.jpg)

*Figure 7.*

- Headset: NRR = 27

![Headset](https://pavementinteractive.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/Tinyheadset2.jpg)

*Figure 8.*

- Headset: NRR = 30

![Headset](https://pavementinteractive.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/Tinyheadset3.jpg)

*Figure 9.*

The shape of the ear can affect the way earplugs fit. Each person should choose the hearing protection that is most comfortable, because ill-fitting or uncomfortable hearing protection will not be used, and therefore would offer no protection.

## Construction Equipment Noise Levels

OSHA regulations for noise exposure:

**Table 3.**

| Allowed to be unprotected | Allowed to be unprotected |  |  |  |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Up to 8 hours | 90 decibels |  |  |  |
| Up to 4 hours | 95 decibels |  |  |  |
| Up to 1 hour | 105 decibels |  |  |  |

When noise reaches 95 decibels, OSHA requires you to work less than 4 hours without hearing protection. This does not mean that 95 decibels is a safe level of noise; 1 in 5 people exposed regularly to 90 decibels will lose some hearing, while short, very loud noises do the most harm.

**Table 4.**

| Equipment | Decibels | Equipment | Decibels |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Pneumatic chip hammer | 103-113 | Earth Tamper | 90-96 |
| Jackhammer | 102-111 | Crane | 90-96 |
| Concrete joint cutter | 99-102 | Hammer | 87-95 |
| Portable saw | 88-102 | Earthmover | 87-94 |
| Stud welder | 101 | Front-end loader | 86-94 |
| Bulldozer | 93-96 | Backhoe | 84-93 |
| See videos, below. |  |  |  |

A good rule of thumb is that if people 3 feet apart need to raise their voices to speak to one another, it is too noisy and hearing protection should be used.

Also try to move around the site in the course of the day, and move from more to less noisy areas as work allows. During rest or lunch breaks, move to a quieter area.

Use hearing protection regularly. This doesn't need to completely block voices or other noise, like backup alarms. Reduce the noise, don't shut it completely out.

Make a yearly appointment to have a doctor check your hearing.

### Washington State Noise Limitations for Construction Workers

The Washington Industrial Safety and Health Act (WISHA) sets the Permissible Exposure Limit (PEL) at 85 dBA for a 8 hour shift, while the OSHA PEL is 90 dBA for 8 hours. According to WISHA, for every 5 dBA above 85, the exposure time is cut in ½. This is referred to as exchange rates.

![WISHA Allowable Exposure Times](https://pavementinteractive.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/Wishaallow.jpg)

*Figure 10.* WISHA Allowable Exposure Times

#### WAC 296-817 Hearing Loss Prevention

According to Washington State law, the following table limits the exposure of construction workers to noise and delineates the protection required.

![According to Washington State law, the following table limits the exposure of construction workers to noise and delineates the protection required.](https://pavementinteractive.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/NoiseWACcriteria.jpg)

*Figure 11.*

#### University of Washington

[UW School of Public Health and Community Medicine](http://depts.washington.edu/occnoise) has done extensive studies on construction noise, and provides brochures for most of the major construction trades.

**Table 5.** Work shift noise level for 887 construction workers (UW study)

| Category | Result (dBA) |
| --- | --- |
| Average full-shift noise level | 81.4 |
| Average length of work shifts | 8 hr 26 min |
| % of full-shift average levels over 85 dBA | 34% |
| % of full-shift average levels over 90 dBA | 10% |
| % of work shifts with any noise over 115 dBA | 52% |
| Average % time hearing protectors used above 85 dBA | 39% |
| Average % time hearing protectors used above 115 dBA | 34% |
| Note: Based on one minute samples of L_(eq) |  |

**Table 6.** Hearing protection NRR which should prevent most workers from being exposed above the 8 hour allowable limit (UW study)

| Trade | NRR (dBA) |
| --- | --- |
| Sheet metal worker | 12 |
| Insulation worker | 12 |
| Electrician | 12 |
| Tile setter | 12 |
| Carpenter | 14 |
| Cement Mason | 14 |
| Ironworker | 18 |
| Bricklayer | 22 |
| Laborer | 24 |
| Operating Engineer | 24 |
| Masonry restoration worker | 26 |

### City of Seattle Construction Related Noise

**Table 7.** Maximum permissible noise levels within Seattle for all types of sounds during the daytime (7 am to 10 pm).

| District of Sound Source | District of Receiving Property |  |  |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
|  | Residential | Commercial | Industrial |
| Residential | 55 | 57 | 60 |
| Commercial | 57 | 60 | 65 |
| Industrial | 60 | 65 | 70 |

**Table 8.** Maximum permissible noise levels within Seattle for all types of sounds for weeknights (10 pm to 7 am) and weekends and holidays (10 pm to 9 am).

| District of Sound Source | District of Receiving Property |  |  |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
|  | Residential | Commercial | Industrial |
| Residential | 45 | 57 | 60 |
| Commercial | 47 | 60 | 65 |
| Industrial | 50 | 65 | 70 |

### City of Portland, OR Construction Related Noise

Construction times allowed by the City of Portland noise code is 7 am to 6 pm Monday through Saturday, and allows for noises up to 85 dBA at a 50 ft. distance. However, Portland recognizes that some equipment cannot meet that standard (such as jackhammers, concrete saws, etc) and are exempt from the standard during the permissible construction times.

### FHWA Roadway Construction Noise Model

Based on extensive calculations and measurements from Boston’s Central Artery/Tunnel project. The data base has extensive equipment data measured via A-weighted $$L_{max}$$ at a distance of 50 ft. from the construction equipment. Refer to the publication: FHWA-HEP-05-054, January 2006, “FHWA Roadway Construction"

## Construction Noise Links

Construction noise information:

- [https://www.osha.gov/SLTC/noisehearingconservation/construction.html](https://www.osha.gov/SLTC/noisehearingconservation/construction.html)
- [Highway Construction Noise Handbook](http://www.fhwa.dot.gov/environment/noise/construction_noise/handbook/)

Safety and Health Information:

- [https://www.osha.gov/SLTC/noisehearingconservation/construction.html](https://www.osha.gov/SLTC/noisehearingconservation/construction.html)

Detailed Information on Equipment Noise Levels:

- [http://www.fhwa.dot.gov/environment/noise/construction_noise/handbook/handbook09.cfm](http://www.fhwa.dot.gov/environment/noise/construction_noise/handbook/handbook09.cfm)

## HMA Production Plant Decibel Readings

Video 1: Decibel readings below asphalt cement mixing drum in HMA production plant yard. — https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8MT2f-5WbQk

Video 2: Decibel readings next to mixing drum. — https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s-rN3uJtbic

Video 3: Ambient decibel readings adjacent to HMA mixing drum compressors. — https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I68x9MGrcXI

Video 4: Decibel readings above HMA production plant mixing drum. — https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w6_hgyx64ao

Video 5: Decibel readings below vibratory aggregate sieves in an HMA production plant yard. — https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KSyLBkJCDfk

Video 6: Decibel readings adjacent to vibrating aggregate sieve. — https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xnGG0K8trJM

Video 7: Decibel readings below HMA drum about five feet from the drum center. — https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-H5t7dCibys

Video 8: Decibel readings below HMA drum about ten feet from the drum center. — https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d1YYN9GwzoY

Video 9: Ambient decibel readings adjacent to pneumatic hammer. — https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jALZWk22C0Q

Video 10: Decibel readings adjacent to an operating pneumatic hammer. — https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eY_gSnOu1qM

Video 11: Decibel readings five feet from an operating aggregate conveyor belt. — https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=euiP1joUjTY

Video 12: Decibel readings ten feet from an operating aggregate conveyor belt. — https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mxnYIDS-bAg

Video 13: Decibel readings located next to an operating aggregate conveyor belt. — https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bascC1GGmbQ

Video 14: Decibel readings next to HMA production plant machinery. — https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7-mlReznL1Y

Video 15: Decibel readings approximately 25 feet from a diesel powered dump truck. — https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Iz15lY6OURs

Video 16: Decibel reading of ambient noise at the ground level within an HMA production plant yard. — https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BxQ4v4Gx-xI

Video 17: Decibel reading of ambient noise at the ground level within an HMA production plant yard. — https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PZfGV46GagA

Video 18: Decibel readings five feet from welding operation. — https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tmsNgCGiXdI

Video 19: Decibel readings ten feet from welding operation. — https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zL4dJxRRBus

Video 20: Decibel readings fifteen feet from welding operation. — https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P5Rf83ViRw8