This paper presents an analytical procedure to develop a noise contour map of the workplace. The procedure requires the following input data: ambient noise level, noise levels generated by individual machines, and the (x, y) coordinates of the machine locations. A set of mathematical formulae is also developed to estimate the combined noise levels at predetermined locations (or points) of the workplace floor. Contour lines are then drawn to connect points having an equal noise level. Although based on estimated data, this noise contour map allows engineers to better understand the noise situations of the workplace and determine if a noise hazard is present. The analytical nature of the procedure also enables engineers to quickly construct the noise contour map and revise the map when changes occur in noise levels due to a workplace re-layout or an addition of a new noise source. Relevance to industry The procedure for constructing a noise contour map is typically laborious and time consuming, thereby limiting its applications although its usefulness is widely recognized. With the proposed analytical procedure, manufacturing industry can quickly evaluate the workplace noise situation and determine if workers are exposed to a noise hazard. Furthermore, the effect of placing an additional machine at a specific location on the overall noise level can be predicted prior to its installation, thereby not only avoiding unnecessary costs but also enhancing workplace safety.