Nearly all workplaces have some form of noise whether it be a busy office with faxes, telephones and printers all operating at the same time or places of entertainment such as nightclubs or bars or industrial premises where machinery is being used. It is important that the noise in workplaces does not cause harm to workers in the vicinity.
The Effects of Noise
Exposure to high noise levels can cause incurable hearing damage. The damage involves loss of hearing ability, possibly made worse by permanent tinnitus (ringing in the ears), and other effects. Sufferers find it difficult to distinguish words clearly, for example they tend to confuse words such as 'bit' and 'tip'.
Noise at work can cause other problems such as disturbance, interference with communication and stress.
The Law
The Control of Noise at Work Regulations 2005 requires employers to prevent or reduce the risks to health and safety from exposure to noise at work.
The Regulations requires employers to: -
- Assess the risks to your employees from noise at work.
- Take action to reduce the noise exposure that produces those risks.
- Provide your employees with hearing protection if you cannot reduce the noise exposure enough by using other methods.
- Make sure the legal limits on noise exposure are not exceeded.
- Provide your employees with information, instruction and training.
- Carry out health surveillance where there is a risk to health.
Action Levels and Limit Values
|
Exposure |
Values |
Action |
| Lower Exposure Action Values |
Daily or weekly exposure of 80 dB
Peak sound pressure of 135 dB |
Where noise exposures are below the lower exposure action values, risks are low. Take actions which are relatively inexpensive and simple to carry out |
| Upper Exposure Action Values |
Daily or weekly exposure of 85 dB
Peak sound pressure 137dB |
Where employees are likely to be exposed at or above the upper exposure action values, you must put in place a planned programme of noise control |
NB: There are also levels of noise exposure which must not be exceeded: -
Daily or weekly exposure of 86 dB
Peak sound pressure of 140 dB |
Employers in the music and entertainment sectors have until 6 April 2008 to comply with the Control of Noise at Work Regulations 2005.
For More Information
Use the links on the left to find out more about health and safety.
Fro more information access the Health and Safety Executive’s ‘Noise at Work Guide for Employers on the Control of Noise at Work Regulations 2005’ guidance booklet.
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