Case study: Teck Trail Occupational Noise Survey
About This Project
The Occupational Noise Survey at Teck Metals Ltd.’s Trail Operations facility was undertaken to update and reassess workplace noise conditions across the plant. Previous measurements conducted in 2011 had identified high-risk zones where workers are required to wear double hearing protection as part of standard safety practices.
As part of its ongoing occupational health and safety initiatives, Teck sought a clearer understanding of current noise conditions throughout the facility, along with opportunities to reduce worker noise exposure through engineering controls where practical.
BKL was engaged to conduct an occupational noise survey at the Trail Operations site, with the objective of developing updated noise maps for the identified high-risk areas and reviewing potential noise mitigation options. Measurements and assessments were carried out in accordance with CSA Z107.56-13, Measurement of Noise Exposure, a standard referenced in WorkSafeBC guidance for occupational noise assessments.
Scope of services
Our work focused on collecting reliable field data and translating it into practical insights that could support noise management and mitigation efforts within the facility.
Key components of the scope included:
- Site survey and noise measurements: We conducted a week long site visit to measure sound levels in the high-risk areas previously identified within the plant. Measurements were taken at approximately ear height using a Type 1 integrating sound level meter, ensuring measurement accuracy consistent with occupational noise assessment standards. Measurement locations were selected in areas where workers typically perform tasks or spend time during regular operations.
- Noise data collection and analysis: At each measurement location, the survey recorded several acoustical parameters according to the CSA standard, and as required by WorksafeBC. Measurements were conducted for durations sufficient to ensure the readings reflected stable and representative noise conditions.
- Noise mapping: Following the site measurements, we developed noise contour maps for the surveyed areas. These maps provide a clear visual representation of how noise is distributed within each area of the facility. The final report included tables of measurement data, mapped measurement locations, and the resulting noise contour maps, creating a clear dataset to support further evaluation.
- Preliminary review of noise mitigation opportunities: During the survey, we also reviewed potential conceptual noise control measures, with the goal of identifying practical opportunities for noise reduction. Examples may include the installation of silencers, acoustical enclosures, or barriers around noise-generating equipment.
Project benefits
The noise survey provided Teck with an updated understanding of noise conditions across key operational areas at the Trail Operations facility.
Key outcomes of the project include:
- Improved understanding of noise distribution: The measurement data and noise maps show where higher noise levels occur and how sound levels vary across different areas of the plant. This supports operations and safety teams in assessing potential worker noise exposure.
- Support for future noise control planning: By identifying potential mitigation opportunities at a conceptual level, the survey helps inform future discussions around engineering controls that could reduce noise at the source or along the transmission path.
- Baseline data for future improvements: The survey establishes a baseline of current noise conditions within the high-risk areas. This information can be used to support future improvement initiatives, follow-up studies, or comparisons after operational or equipment changes.
Through this work, we provided the data and analysis needed to better understand the workplace noise conditions and support ongoing efforts to manage occupational noise and protect worker hearing health.
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Project Name:
Teck Trail Occupational Noise Survey
Year Completed:
2021