Determination of Noise Emissions of Band Saw Machines Based on Operating Conditions in Timber Enterprises: A Case Study of Kahramanmaraş

This study aims to evaluate and map the occupational noise emissions generated by band saw machines in the timber and forest products industry under different operating conditions. Field measurements were carried out across 25 active sawmill enterprises in Kahramanmaraş, Turkey, in compliance with the ISO 9612 (2025) standard. Noise levels were monitored using a calibrated TESTO 815 sound level meter at the operator's ear level under two operational states: idle and loaded (active wood cutting). The collected data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and a Paired-Samples t-test. The empirical results showed that the average equivalent noise level (Leq) of band saw machines during idle operation was 85.29 dB(A). Upon transitioning to the loaded cutting state, the noise level increased significantly to an average of 100.05 dB(A) (p < 0.001), representing a net average increase of 14.76 dB(A). Furthermore, the average maximum instantaneous noise level (Lmax) during cutting operations reached 104.95 dB(A), with peak values hitting 108.13 dB(A). These findings indicate that band saws emit hazardous noise levels that systematically exceed the international permissible exposure limits of 85 dB(A) set by the ILO, even while idling. Despite these severe risks, low personal protective equipment (PPE) utilization was observed among the workers. The study concludes that engineering controls, administrative exposure rotations, and comprehensive programs to improve occupational health literacy are urgently required in regional sawmill operations to prevent irreversible noise-induced hearing loss.