FAKULTI TEKNOLOGI DAN KEJURUTERAAN
MEKANIKAL
UNIVERSITI TEKNIKAL MALAYSIA MELAKA
BMKT4253 ENGINEERING ETHICS & OSHE
ASSIGNMENT
Report Forum Discussion on OSH and Environmental Issues
(Workplace Noise and Health Impact)
LECTURER’S NAME MOHAMED HAFIZ BIN MD ISA
STUDENT’S NAME MATRIX NO:
S1. MUHAMMAD FAIZ IRWAN BIN MUHAMMAD FARID B092210032
S2. WAN RAFIZHULMIZAN BIN MOHD AZLAN B092210311
S3. MOHAMAD AMIRUL HAKIMI BIN MOHAMAD AZLIE B092210200
S4.
S5.
INTRODUCTION
Background of Topic
Noise is one of the most common dangers at work in many industries around the world.
Whether it’s at construction sites, factories, airports, or even in modern offices, workers are often
exposed to loud sounds that can harm their health and make them less productive. Unlike other
dangers you can see, noise is invisible, and its effects happen slowly over time, which makes it a
silent danger in the workplace.
Being around loud noise for too long can cause serious health problems like losing your hearing,
trouble sleeping, feeling stressed or tired, and even heart problems. Loud noise can also make it
hard for people to talk to each other, focus on their work, and can increase the chance of accidents
especially in dangerous jobs like construction and factory work.
Objective of The Topic
A. Raise awareness about the risks associated with excessive noise exposure in various
workplace environments.
B. Identify the sources and types of workplace noise, especially in high-risk industries such as
construction, manufacturing, and transportation.
C. Understand the short-term and long-term health effects of noise on workers, including
hearing loss, stress, fatigue, and cardiovascular issues.
D. Encourage the application of occupational safety and health (OSH) knowledge in evaluating
noise hazards and implementing effective control strategies.
DISCUSSION
Key point from each member:
Amirul (Moderator) =
• Introduced the forum topic: "Workplace Noise and Its Impact on Health."
• Emphasized that noise is an invisible hazard often underestimated in workplace
safety discussions.
• Highlighted the long-term health risks associated with prolonged noise exposure.
• Directed the flow of the discussion and maintained structured interaction between
panel members.
• Asked relevant questions to encourage deeper analysis and balanced participation.
• Stressed the importance of raising awareness among employers and employees
about safe noise levels.
Faiz (Speaker 1) =
• Described short-term effects of workplace noise such as stress, fatigue, and poor
concentration.
• Highlighted long-term impacts including hearing loss, high blood pressure, and
cardiovascular issues.
• Recommended control measures like noise barriers, rotating workers, and using
earplugs.
• Stressed the need for employee training and stricter enforcement of noise safety
policies.
Rafizhulmizan (Speaker 2) =
• Identified major sources of workplace noise, such as machinery, engines, and
equipment.
• Noted that industries like construction, manufacturing, and aviation face the
highest noise exposure.
• Explained that noise above 85 decibels (dB) is hazardous and can cause long-term
hearing issues.
• Emphasized the importance of regular noise monitoring and following legal
exposure limits under OSH regulations.
CHALLENGES
1. Lack of Awareness
Many employers and workers underestimate the dangers of prolonged noise
exposure, particularly its cumulative effects on hearing and health.
2. Poor Enforcement of Regulations
While occupational noise limits are outlined in OSH guidelines, enforcement is
often weak due to limited inspections or lack of reporting systems.
3. Insufficient Use of Protective Equipment
Workers may not consistently use earplugs or earmuffs, either due to discomfort,
unavailability, or lack of training on their importance.
4. Inadequate Workplace Design
Some workplaces are not acoustically designed to reduce noise, especially in
open-plan offices or factories with exposed machinery.
RECOMMENDATIONS
1. Regular Noise Monitoring
Conduct scheduled noise level assessments using decibel meters to identify high-
risk areas and take timely corrective action.
2. Engineering Controls
Install soundproof enclosures, use quieter machinery, and apply noise-dampening
materials to reduce noise at the source.
3. Administrative Measures
Implement job rotation schedules to limit individual exposure time, especially in
high-noise areas.
4. Provision and Enforcement of PPE
Provide quality hearing protection devices and enforce mandatory usage through
regular supervision and policy compliance checks.
5. Training and Awareness Programs
Conduct workshops and training sessions to educate workers and supervisors
about the risks of noise exposure and the correct use of protective equipment.
6. Review and Strengthen OSH Policies
Update internal safety policies to align with current regulations and promote a
safety-first culture within the organization.
CONCLUSION
The forum provided valuable insights into the often-overlooked issue of workplace noise
and its impact on workers' health and safety. Through active participation and discussion, the group
gained a deeper understanding of how noise can silently affect both physical and mental well-
being over time.
The key takeaway from the forum is that workplace noise is a preventable hazard, but it requires
collective effort from employers, employees, and safety officers to be effectively managed.
Addressing noise hazards should not be delayed until symptoms appear, but should instead be
integrated into daily safety practices.
The group also realized the importance of:
• Raising awareness through education and training,
• Enforcing proper safety policies related to noise control,
• Applying engineering and administrative controls alongside personal protective equipment
to create a healthier and more sustainable working environment.
Overall, the forum enhanced the group’s communication, collaboration, and critical thinking skills
in addressing real workplace OSH issues. It also strengthened their confidence in applying course
knowledge to practical scenarios and proposing realistic, sustainable solutions for future
workplace improvements.
REFFERENCE
Link video presentation = https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wACov7WzcLQ
