Definition(s)
Protected exposure
A worker’s exposure to noise, which takes into account the protection afforded by personal hearing protectors. Protected exposure may not under any circumstances exceed the noise exposure standard. The correct notation for protected exposure is L(eff)Aeq,8h. Note: the noise exposure standard (NOHSC 1007) is based on “unprotected” exposure to noise i.e. LAeq,8h, not L(eff)Aeq,8h.
Source: NOPSEMA Guidance Note: Noise Management—Principles of Assessment and Control, N-09000-GN0401, Australia, Revision 3, December 2011. Regulatory Guidance