Application of hybrid Shannon’s entropy – PROMEHTEE methods in weighing and prioritizing industrial noise control measures

Abstract There are various strategies to prevent and control of noise exposure in occupational settings. This study was aimed to use Shannon’s entropy – PROMEHTEE hybrid model for weighing and prioritizing noise control solutions in an oil refinery. At first, the sound pressure levels were measured based on the recommended standard of ISO 9612. Next, criteria and noise control strategies were determined using the Delphi technique. In the third stage, the weights of the criteria were computed using Shannon’s entropy method and in the last stage, the solutions were prioritized by the PROMEHTEE method. Based on the results of Shannon’s entropy method, criteria in the order of priority included executive cost (0.2710), noise reduction efficiency (0.2531), feasibility (0.2435), safety (0.1120), possible interference with other processes (0.1107) and up-to-datedness of the methods (0.091). Also, based on the results of the PROMEHTEE method, the best solutions were construction of acoustic enclosures for people exposed to noise with a weight of 0.5476, and Modification or change of the work process with a weight of −0.6905, respectively. Therefore, the Shannon’s entropy – PROMEHTEE hybrid method can be used as a credible scientific tool to select the most appropriate noise control solution in the industries.