Occupational noise exposures in aquaculture: assessment and mitigation strategy

Stone, Jonathan (2020) Occupational noise exposures in aquaculture: assessment and mitigation strategy. Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

[English] PDF - Accepted Version Available under License - The author retains copyright ownership and moral rights in this thesis. Neither the thesis nor substantial extracts from it may be printed or otherwise reproduced without the author's permission. Download (6MB)

Abstract

Noise-induced hearing loss has become an increasing concern for employees in the aquaculture industry. Deafness, hearing loss and hearing impairment have all been identified as some of the most common injury claims from aquaculture labourers. Despite this information, noise levels and associated noise exposures in facilities have been highly undocumented. This research aims to document information on noise exposure in aquaculture and identify short- and long-term solutions to high exposures experienced by employees. Data was collected at four aquaculture facilities in Canada. Noise sources were identified and analyzed in narrowband frequency. Noise exposures were also measured and compared with the recommendations outlined by the Canadian Standards Association. Exposures were observed to be highest during tasks within the vicinity of machinery and other mechanical equipment. Short-term solutions were identified through the selection of appropriate hearing protection. Engineering design solutions were then applied to assess the feasibility of long-term solutions to reduce exposures in facilities. Numerical acoustic simulations were performed on a facility model where the Design of Experiments methodology was applied to validate its acoustical properties. The simulations showed that design solutions could be applied to reduce noise transmission and lower exposure levels throughout the facility.

Actions (login required)

View Item