Worksite noise should be controlled to an average of below 85 dBA to protect worker hearing. Simple field fixes can significantly reduce noise exposures.  Noise can be controlled by:

• Using "silenced" or muffled equipment
• Maintaining equipment and keeping tools sharp
• Locating noisy equipment as far as feasible from work areas
• Not locating noisy equipment near hard reflecting or reverberating surfaces
• Erecting barriers between the noise source and workers

Worksite noise is most effectively and reliably controlled at the source and in its path to the worker, not at the worker's ear.

• Muffled generators and compressors are available from equipment rental centers. Muffled compressors may produce about 75 dBA compared to 90 dBA or more for unmuffled versions.
• Doubling the distance between the noise source and the worker reduces the noise exposure about 6 dBA (3 dBA for linear sources like roads). Each additional doubling yield an additional 6 dBA of reduction. Echoing from exterior walls or interior walls and ceiling can reduce this reduction.
• Simple plywood barriers can yield a 10-12 dBA reduction in noise.  The barrier should not have gaps and should be wider and higher than the line of sight between the noise source and the worker. 
• Keeping cutting tools sharp and mechanical equipment well maintained reduces noise while cutting job time and operating costs.

Construction tool noise source levels and the measured effect of distance and barriers can be found on eLCOSH

Noise Control: A Guide for Workers and Employers

Another type of noise control strategy is a program called “Buy Quiet” developed by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) which was later adopted by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) for the construction and manufacturing sectors.  “Buy Quiet” is an occupational noise hazard prevention initiative that recommends selecting and purchasing the lowest noise emitting power tools and machinery in order to reduce the risk of noise-induced hearing loss.  As part of this, NIOSH has developed the NIOSH Power Tools Database, a searchable database that provides sound emission levels of powered hand tools.

Task-specific effects have not been characterized, but poor communication in general reduces productivity.

Controlled studies have found that even high noise levels may increase output in terms of numbers of tasks but errors are more likely to occur and quality is reduce.  Tasks involving concentration are more vulnerable to noise disruption than are routine tasks, and intermittent noise tends to be more disruptive than continuous noise. Poor performance may continue after intermittent noise has stopped.

Reduction of noise at the source reduces or eliminates the need for a hearing conservation program.

Overall site safety is enhanced by better communication.

Productivity is improved by better communication and reduced worker stress.

Construction tool noise source levels and the measured effect of distance and barriers can be found on eLCOSH

Noise Control: A Guide for Workers and Employers

Also use hearing protection personal protective equipment (PPE), such as plugs and muffs for when adequate noise reduction is not possible.

• General Labor
  • Construct and remove sidewalk forms
    • Noise
  • Install traffic control markers, barricades and maintain traffic patterns
    • Noise
  • Jackhammer rock and concrete surfaces
    • Noise
  • Operate concrete mixers, pumps and fire proofing sprayers
    • Noise
  • Operate earth boring machines
    • Noise
  • Operate pavement cutters and concrete grinders
    • Noise
  • Perform manual demolition
    • Noise