Devon based marine engineering firm J+S Ltd requested that South West Noise Consultants Soundguard Acoustics Ltd determine the level of noise risk to employees during their Magazine Torpedo Launch System testing. The torpedos are launched and fired along an internal track within the test bay using compressed air producing peak noise levels as high as 144dBC.
After a noise report of the torpedo system within the development bay was completed the Ministry of Defence requested the test to be repeated on board HMS Northumberland a type 23 Frigate. Sound Level Meters were set up to capture the firing of the torpedo within the weapons room and crew were fitted with DoseBadges and stood at their specific locations to determine their exposure.
It was recognised that in factory and training environments the Control of Noise at Work Regulations 2005 do apply and appropriate control by compressor noise reduction, hearing protection, demarked zones and clear signs was determined to be the most effective approach in reducing the noise exposure of staff and crew. Devon based noise consultants Soundguard Acoustics Ltd continues to work with the company.
