Occupational Noise Assessment Study for Maritime and Rescue Operations

The Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) seeks a qualified organization to conduct a comprehensive three-part noise risk assessment project to evaluate hearing protection adequacy and occupational hearing health risks across multiple operational areas: Part 1: Helicopter Operations Noise Assessment - Assess noise exposure levels and hearing protection requirements for SCOO and CRO rescue team members during helicopter operations, including hover operations and casualty transfers. The study will evaluate three helicopter types across up to three geographical locations to establish typical noise levels and exposure profiles, with potential for expansion based on findings. Part 2: Marine Survey Noise Assessment - Conduct dosimetry measurements to quantify cumulative noise exposure for marine surveyors working in high-noise vessel environments (engine rooms, generator spaces, machinery compartments) and determine whether current hearing protection is suitable and sufficient. Part 3: Rescue Coordination Centre Headset Assessment - Measure cumulative noise exposure from continuous headset use in Joint and Maritime Rescue Coordination Centres (JRCC/MRCC) and evaluate associated hearing health risks for rescue coordination staff. The successful bidder will provide data-driven recommendations on noise levels, exposure profiles, and hearing protection adequacy. This procurement seeks suppliers with expertise in occupational noise measurement, dosimetry assessment, and hearing health risk evaluation.