Employee Manual 2023 - Flipbook - Page 117
Trains
Woodworking Tools
Power Saw
Gunfire
90 decibels
100 decibels
110 decibels
120 decibels
How Is Noise Controlled?
The control of noise exposure is generally conducted by the following methods:
• Noise reduction along the path by shielding or enclosing the source.
• By increasing the distance between the noise source and the worker.
• Placing the worker in a booth or enclosure.
• Use of personal protection (ear plugs or muffs).
Respiratory Protection
It is the responsibility of every employee to have an awareness of the respiratory protection
requirements for their work area. Employees are responsible for wearing the appropriate
respiratory equipment according to proper instructions, and for maintaining the equipment in a
clean and operable condition.
NO employee shall wear a respirator unless authorized to do so by his or her department head; and
only after appropriate training, medical surveillance, and fit-testing is received.
There are generally two basic types of respiratory hazards.
Particles…
Particles are tiny pieces of matter that may or may not be visible, including…
• Dusts: dry particles such as sawdust.
• Mists: liquid particles such as spray paint.
• Fumes: tiny metal particles given off when a substance is burned.
Gases…
Gases are substances that are dissolved in the air. You can’t see them and may not even smell
them. Gases include vapors given off by liquids when heated or left at room temperature and
combustion by-products.
Respiratory hazards can irritate or damage the lungs, nasal passages, and other organs.
You can’t always see or smell materials in the air that may be dangerous to inhale.
To protect yourself…
• Know the respiratory hazard you’re exposed to.
• Use the appropriate respirators and cartridges/filters for each hazard.
• Make sure the respirator fits properly.
City of Plymouth Employee manual - Page 117 – March 2023
