Integrated Noise Management Strategies in Industrial Environments: A Framework for Occupational Safety, Health, and Productivity

Timur Vasile Chis, Lucian-Ionel Cioca, Daniel Onut Badea (), Iuliana Cristea, Doru Costin Darabont (), Raluca Maria Iordache, Silviu Nicolae Platon, Alina Trifu and Vlad-Andrei Barsan
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Timur Vasile Chis: Faculty of Oil and Gas Engineering, Petroleum-Gas University of Ploiesti, 39 Bucureşti Blvd., 100680 Ploieşti, Romania
Lucian-Ionel Cioca: Industrial Engineering and Management Department, Faculty of Engineering, Lucian Blaga University of Sibiu, 550024 Sibiu, Romania
Daniel Onut Badea: National Research and Development Institute on Occupational Safety—I.N.C.D.P.M. “Alexandru Darabont”, 35A Ghencea Blvd., Sector 6, 061692 Bucharest, Romania
Iuliana Cristea: Faculty of Oil and Gas Engineering, Petroleum-Gas University of Ploiesti, 39 Bucureşti Blvd., 100680 Ploieşti, Romania
Doru Costin Darabont: National Research and Development Institute on Occupational Safety—I.N.C.D.P.M. “Alexandru Darabont”, 35A Ghencea Blvd., Sector 6, 061692 Bucharest, Romania
Raluca Maria Iordache: National Research and Development Institute on Occupational Safety—I.N.C.D.P.M. “Alexandru Darabont”, 35A Ghencea Blvd., Sector 6, 061692 Bucharest, Romania
Silviu Nicolae Platon: Safety1st Test LLC, 61A Moinesti Street, Sector 6, 061232 Bucharest, Romania
Alina Trifu: National Research and Development Institute on Occupational Safety—I.N.C.D.P.M. “Alexandru Darabont”, 35A Ghencea Blvd., Sector 6, 061692 Bucharest, Romania
Vlad-Andrei Barsan: S.C. Continental S.A., 550018 Sibiu, Romania

Sustainability, 2025, vol. 17, issue 3, 1-29

Abstract: Noise exposure in rubber manufacturing poses significant risks to worker health, safety, and productivity. This study explores these challenges via an integrated approach that combines task-based and group noise measurements as required by Directive 2003/10/EC, noise mapping, real-time monitoring, and worker feedback. Noise levels were found to range from 81 to 89 dB(A) across worker groups, with task-specific peaks exceeding 91 dB(A) near high-noise machinery. To mitigate these risks, engineering controls, including acoustic barriers and machine isolation, were proposed alongside administrative measures such as task rotation and improved access to personal protective equipment. The analysis demonstrated a link between noise levels and reduced productivity, emphasizing the need for targeted interventions. Integrating IoT sensors and AI for real-time noise monitoring offers opportunities to increase compliance, reduce exposure, and improve safety outcomes. Whilst engineering controls involve higher initial investments, cost-benefit analysis highlights their long-term advantages in reducing health-related expenses and improving productivity. This study reinforces the importance of a proactive, worker-centered approach to noise management in rubber manufacturing, emphasizing sustainability, risk mitigation, and the adoption of innovative technologies to create safer and more efficient workplaces.

Keywords: noise exposure; occupational safety and health; risk management; risk assessment; workplace sustainability (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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