A project we conducted focused on assessing noise exposure levels at a facility in Derby where employees work near fan units in a server room. The fans were causing excessive noise, and employees had reported discomfort due to the high levels of sound. The aim of the assessment was to evaluate the noise levels and recommend measures to reduce the exposure.
The assessment found that when the fans were running, noise levels were highest at the air intake vent and with the door open. However, even standing 10-20 cm away from the vent showed significant noise reduction. A key finding was that keeping the server room door closed significantly lowered the noise exposure for nearby employees.
To minimise the noise levels, several recommendations were made, including enclosing the air intake vent and keeping doors shut to limit unnecessary exposure. Installing acoustic barriers or screens could further help reduce the sound levels. Cross-training staff to rotate between quieter and noisier tasks was also suggested.
Overall, while noise levels did exceed safe limits in some areas, implementing these simple control measures could improve the workplace environment and protect employees from long-term hearing damage.