In Singapore's industrial sectors, noise-induced deafness (NID) has emerged as a prevalent occupational disease. The Ministry of Manpower reported a significant increase in NID cases, from 168 in 2021 to 624 in 2022, accounting for nearly 60% of all occupational diseases that year.

This rising trend underscores the critical need for effective noise monitoring solutions, with dosimeters playing a relevant role in safeguarding workers' hearing health.

Understanding noise-induced deafness

NID results from prolonged exposure to high noise levels, leading to irreversible hearing loss. Industries such as manufacturing and marine are particularly susceptible, with the manufacturing sector alone contributing to 69% of NID cases in 2022.

The nature of these industries often involves continuous exposure to machinery and processes emitting noise levels exceeding safe thresholds.

Dosimeters in noise monitoring

Dosimeters are personal noise monitoring devices designed to measure an individual's exposure to sound over time. Worn by employees throughout their shifts, these devices provide comprehensive data on noise exposure, enabling employers to assess risks accurately and implement necessary control measures.

How dosimeters work

A dosimeter is typically clipped near the worker's ear, capturing real-time noise data throughout the workday. Advanced models, offer features like wireless connectivity and real-time octave band analysis, facilitating detailed assessments of noise exposure.

The collected data is then analyzed to determine if exposure levels exceed the permissible limits set by regulatory bodies.

Regulatory standards and compliance

In Singapore, the Workplace Safety and Health (Noise) Regulations mandate that employers conduct regular noise monitoring, especially in environments where noise levels may pose a risk to workers' hearing.

At the same time, personal dosimetry is required for workers likely to be exposed to excessive noise, with monitoring conducted at least once every three years. Compliance with these regulations is essential not only for legal adherence but also for the prevention of occupational diseases.

Dosimeters from Absolute Instrument to prevent noise-induced deafness

Selecting the right noise monitoring tools is essential for industries aiming to safeguard their employees from the long-term effects of excessive noise exposure. At Absolute Instrument, we offer cutting-edge dosimeters designed to help workplaces in Singapore accurately monitor noise levels, stay compliant with regulations, and, ultimately, prevent noise-induced deafness. Here are three key products that can transform workplace safety:

Svantek SV 104 Personal noise dosimeter

The Svantek SV 104 is renowned for its high precision and robust design, making it ideal for Singapore’s demanding industrial environments. It is particularly valued in industries like shipbuilding, where workers are exposed to fluctuating noise levels.

Key Benefits:

1/1 octave band analysis for detailed noise frequency evaluation.
Built-in vibration sensor to detect microphone tampering, ensuring accurate readings.
Audio recording to pinpoint noise sources during high-exposure events.

Industries facing constant heavy machinery noise, such as shipyards and oil & gas, can benefit from the SV 104's detailed analysis. It allows employers to identify harmful noise sources and take targeted action, ensuring compliance with local noise exposure limits.

Svantek SV 104IS Intrinsically safe personal noise dosimeter

For high-risk environments like oil refineries and chemical plants, explosion-proof equipment is a must. The Svantek SV 104IS is an intrinsically safe version of the SV 104, certified for use in potentially explosive atmospheres.

Key Features:

ATEX and IECEx certifications, making it suitable for hazardous environments.
Advanced data logging with detailed noise event recording.
Long battery life, ensuring uninterrupted measurements over extended shifts.

With Singapore’s Jurong Island being a hub for petrochemical industries, workers often face the dual challenge of high noise exposure and hazardous atmospheres. This dosimeter ensures accurate noise monitoring without compromising safety.

Why investing in reliable dosimeters matters

Using dosimeters like the Svantek SV 104 and Svantek SV 104IS allows companies in Singapore to:

Identify high-noise zones in real time.
Take proactive steps to reduce worker exposure.
Ensure compliance with the Workplace Safety and Health (Noise) Regulations.
Prevent permanent hearing damage among employees.

At Absolute Instrument, we lead the industry in noise monitoring solutions across Singapore and Malaysia. Our team supports businesses with top-tier equipment and expert guidance, ensuring workplaces stay safe, compliant, and productive.

Explore our full range of dosimeters here or contact us today for advice tailored to your industry.

Conclusion

The surge in noise-induced deafness cases within Singapore's industries highlights the urgent need for proactive noise management strategies. Dosimeters serve as indispensable tools in this endeavor, providing precise measurements of individual noise exposure and enabling the implementation of effective hearing conservation measures. By prioritizing the use of dosimeters and adhering to regulatory standards, employers can protect their workforce from the irreversible effects of noise-induced hearing loss.

For more information on dosimeters and noise monitoring solutions, consult reputable occupational safety providers or refer to the Ministry of Manpower's guidelines on workplace noise management.