Health and Safety Noise Assessment Project

The MCA’s requirements are divided into three parts :

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MCA Requirement will cover the following:

Part 1: Noise Risk Assessment and Recommended Levels of Hearing Protection

A feasibility study is required to determine the extent of noise exposure experienced by SCOO and CRO rescue team members during helicopter related operations. These personnel assist with the removal of casualties from helicopters when transferring to ambulances or hospital facilities, and they may also be exposed during live rescue operations when helicopters are required to hover overhead. This results in exposure to high noise levels and significant downward pressure.

The initial scope covers three helicopter types, assessed in possibility three geographical areas, to understand typical noise levels and exposure profiles. The study may be extended depending on initial findings.

Part 2: Noise Risk Assessment for Marine Surveyors During Vessel Inspections

Marine Surveyors frequently access high noise environments such as engine rooms, generator spaces, and other machinery compartments during vessel inspections. Although hearing protection is currently provided, the MCA requires a clearer understanding through dosimetry measurements of:

• the cumulative noise exposure experienced over time, and
• whether existing hearing protection remains suitable and sufficient.

Part 3: Assessment of Noise Exposure from Headset Use in Rescue Coordination Centres

Rescue Coordinators in JRCC and MRCC centres use communication headsets continuously, sometimes for extended periods (over one to two hours) depending on the duration and complexity of rescue missions. Staff have reported concerns related to constant static noise and the potential impact on their long term hearing.

The MCA seeks to determine:

• the cumulative level of noise exposure from headset use, and
• the associated risk to employee hearing health.

This questionnaire is intended to furnish the MCA with the key information it requires to plan a fair and open procurement for this service, including:

• Market appetite for participating in a tender process.