WCB-2026-0484 Claims Records Page 28 of 34

e The worker’s employer conducted a noise survey in the training simulation room on
March 6, 2026. The noise data taken from the workstation that was approximately 1
meter from the two server racks indicated an average exposure level of 57.6 dBA and
a peak of 86.7 dBC. The measured noise levels in the training simulation room are
well below hazardous levels.

e This is consistent with WorkSafeBC noise data collected in various work
environments (e.g., BC Ferry data center and a central computer processing area of
a large hospital) with similar noise sources, which also indicate exposures below
hazardous levels. These measurements take into consideration noise from servers,
network equipment, and air conditioning equipment.

These measurements have been collected using appropriate equipment and analyzed by
professionals trained and experienced in noise measurement methodology (e.g.
Occupational Hygienists).

There are pre-incident industrial audiograms on file from October 2023 to September
2025. There is also a post-incident audiogram from January 30, 2026. A comparison of
the pre-incident results from September 2025 and the post-incident results from January
30, 2026 show that the worker’s hearing thresholds have remained stable. Differences
of 0 to 10 dB are within test-retest variability and are not considered to be significant.
Therefore, there is no evidence of any significant changes in hearing thresholds since
September 2025.

The described incident and evidence on file are not consistent with acoustic trauma.

Further, the noise from the computer server fans was not sudden or unexpected. The
worker also did not report any symptoms until around one week after the training course
began. Overall, the incident is not consistent with acoustic shock either.

As per Dr. Zahabi, the worker’s symptoms are not ear, nose, and throat of origin.

Regarding the worker’s report of headache/migraines and the work-related noise
exposure:

The worker’s pre-existing history of migraines is non-occupational. As mentioned in the
medical records and in his correspondence with the instructor, his sensitivity to noise is
also pre-existing and non-occupational.

Two known triggers for the worker’s migraines are stress and lack of sleep. As noted
above, Dr. Zahabi suspected that the work environment might have also been a trigger
to the worker’s pre-existing migraine condition. However, as per the employer’s noise
survey, the average noise exposure level at the worker’s workstation was 57.6 dBA.
While the noise was subjectively loud and might have been perceived as unpleasant or