Noise & Vibration

About this topic

Noise-induced hearing loss is permanent and irreversible, the White Card exam tests your knowledge of exposure limits, hearing protection requirements, and vibration health risks under AS/NZS 1269.

Key facts to remember

• EAL (Exposure Action Level): 85 dB(A) LAeq,8h, hearing protection zones are mandatory above this.
• EL (Exposure Limit): 90 dB(A) LAeq,8h, must not exceed as a daily average.
• Peak noise limit: 140 dB(C).
• Every 3 dB increase doubles the sound energy, even small increases matter.
• NIHL is permanent, there is no treatment to restore lost hearing.
• Tinnitus (ringing/buzzing in ears) is an early warning sign of noise damage.
• HAVS (Hand-Arm Vibration Syndrome) includes vibration white finger, caused by prolonged vibrating tool use.
• Hand-arm EAV: 2.5 m/s² A(8); ELV: 5 m/s² A(8).

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