B.SC undergraduate Project 

This study is a cross-sectional study that investigates and assess the noise levels in textile workshops in Ajman, UAE. Occupational noise exposure is an issue across various industries, with the textile industry being particularly vulnerable due to heavy reliance on high noise-producing machinery like embroidery machines. The research is conducted using a mixed-method approach in which data is collected qualitatively using a “Excessive Noise Identification Checklist”, and quantitatively using a “Sound Level Meter”. Three workshops were sampled, each workplace was analysed thoroughly to find adequate sampling points in which workers are mostly exposed. The measurements were carried out in each workshop at four sampling points, each point sampled three times at 1-minute intervals then averaged to find the average SPL. All the average SPLs were then averaged, and a total average of all sampling points was calculated. Checklist findings highlighted that all three workshops lack basic controls like personal protective equipment. Quantitatively, across all workshops peak levels would reach 87dB(A) in many instances near high noise-producing machinery. Noise mapping also identified errors in layouts within workshops A and C in which the machines were placed in clusters, this was apparent in the noise zoning map that highlighted the cluster zones as high-risk exposure zones. That identified an immediate need to call for action and engineering controls. It is recommended that engineering controls like noise absorbing panels, layout adjustments, and vibration dampeners can be adapted within the workplaces to cut the noise transmission path to workers. Administrative controls in which workers are given more breaks, shift rotations, and minimizing high-noise tasks to when worker numbers are minimal can also minimize exposure. Additionally, providing basic personal protective equipment like earmuffs when embroidery operators are setting the machine is essential in protecting the workers. As a next step workers must undergo audiometric testing to ensure their safety due to the high noise levels recorded.