Sound level meters and noise dosimeters are used to assess an employee's exposure to noise. Octave band analyzers (OBA) are used to identify the frequencies at which the noise is generated and are mainly used to aid in selecting engineering controls.

Types of noise surveys includes:

General Survey: Conducted to determine the locations and boundaries of hazardous noise areas and equipment. The Type 2 SLM is adequate for this type of survey.

Noise Control Survey: A Type 1 SLM with an octave band filter is used to obtain engineering-type data to aid in selecting a course of action for noise control or to certify audiometric testing booths.

Noise Dosimeter Survey: Dosimeters are used to assess individual noise exposure. Noise dosimeters with a data logging capability are typically used to determine which processes during the work shift are the major contributors to noise exposure so noise control efforts can be focused where the most benefit will be derived.

Impulse Noise Survey: Similar to a general survey but conducted to determine the locations and boundaries specific to hazardous impulse noise areas and equipment. Appendix 5-A contains guidance for conducting an impulse noise survey.