Development of an Occupational Noise Exposure Reduction Project for Defence in Australia

Noise is the most prominent and widespread hazard to which Australian Defence Organisation (ADO) personnel are exposed. Recent advances have been made though the development of a 5 year Noise Exposure Reduction Project for occupational/workplace noise for the ADO by Vipac Engineers & Scientists Ltd. This project was informed by an initial Exposure Reduction Plan (ERP) phase that included a complete review and assessment of noise management practices across Defence and identified a range of deficiencies and recommendations for action. The ERP is based upon a continuous improvement approach and its goals are initially to ensure compliance with Work Health & Safety (WHS) legislation, then to proactively deliver minimisation of noise exposure and management of hearing loss risk throughout the whole of Defence. A coordinated and systematic approach, including best-practice noise surveys and assessments at a representative sample of Defence Bases, has provided an evidence-based dataset to inform effective noise control actions. The project and noise survey findings to date are highlighted. Tailored Noise Management Plans (NMP), with prioritised and practical noise control measures, and innovative noise management tools have been formulated to improve noise control practices across Defence.