Document M46NzZKKd97RL2j6GKo5KDM3a

(conoco) Interoffice Communication to C. E. Gremillion From 0 * J Hal 1 Date August 5, 1975 subject VCM Plant Occupational Noise Exposure Phase II: Dosimeter Study Results This report contains the results of noise dosimeter monitoring in the VCM Plant which represents the second step in the evaluation and control of our occupational noise exposure. Phase I of this noise study was the plant grid survey which indicated that there are areas in the plant with noise levels high enough to pose a potential hazard and/or OSHA violation. The objective of Phase II is to determine if employees are present in the high noise level areas for sufficient time to be over exposed. The most expedient means for determining employee exposures is by use of noise dosimeters. The noise dosimeter is a portable instrument which, when worn on the belt of individual for an eight hour shift, integrates his exposure to high noise levels on a time weighted average basis and yields his daily dose as a percent of the allowable limit. This monitoring technique eliminates the systematic errors associated with random samples of noise levels in the plant. Attached is a summary of the dosimeter data by job classification. Each value is a five day average. RESULTS The data shows that our employees are not excessively exposed on a routine basis. However, there are specific areas in the plant and particular job tasks (e.g. taking compressor vibration readings) which result in excessive exposure. A complete report containing recommendations for engineering and/or administrative controls will follow. Overall, it appears that compliance with the forthcoming * ' `ard on noise exposure (85DBA-50%) will present no major problems. CC: G. D. Johnson R. J. Vernon SZSTOOOOO DAA M/3 Mi9*<ni-np 0 9J^ 3XOS94XJ JttHtf I