This educational article has been developed to assist in the management of noise from thicknessers. 

Maintenance

• Ensure blades are sharpened at regular intervals and as required. 
• Ensure the dust extractor heads are firmly connected to the thicknesser to avoid rattles.  

Noise control

• Consider the practicality of enclosing machine. 
• When a cutter wheel rotates under no load conditions, an air stream is being chopped creating a siren noise. The air cavity around the cutting blade can be filled with rubber to reduce the free running blade noise. 
• With newer models, line blade guard with high-density acoustic foam such as Decibar AF 50 or similar, to reduce the free running blade noise. 
• Locate machine away from work areas, alongside other noisy equipment or in a separate machine room.  

Operator control

• Dress timber in small increments, not taking large 'chunks' out at one time. 
• Ensure staff are adequately trained in correct use of the thicknesser.  

Alternatives

• Consider the substitution of softwoods for hardwoods. 
• Purchase pre-machined timber where possible.  

Adapted from the Noise Control Manual for Schools with the permission of the Education Department of Western Australia.