Noise control campaign (2007-2008)
During 2007-2008 HSE (Health & Safety Executive) inspectors addressed noise in three priority industry sectors. They expected to see
evidence of reduction of noise risks to the lowest level that is
reasonably practicable. Where noise risks remain, inspectors will be
looking for evidence that the risks have been managed adequately and
that suitable hearing protection is available and health surveillance in place.
The following products are useful for providing a warning when noise
levels are sufficiently high that hearing protection should be worn.
The HSE industry links below
provide information on established good practice for managing noise risks.
Plastic Products -
Woodworking -
Concrete and Cement Products
All pages include information on established
noise control methods for individual high noise activities and
processes. Additionally information on general management of noise risks and
links to further information & case studies are available.
Noise Regulations
The Control of Noise at Work Regulations 2005 (the Noise Regulations) came
into force for all industry sectors in the UK in April 2006, except for
the music and entertainment sectors where they came into force on 6 April 2008.
The aim of the Noise Regulations is to ensure that workers are
protected from excessive noise levels, which may cause hearing damage or
tinnitus (permanent ringing in the ears), at their place of work.
The Control of Noise at Work Regulations 2005 replace the Noise at Work
Regulations 1989.
Click here for further
information regarding noise at work in the music and entertainment sectors
At daily or weekly average exposure levels of 85 decibels, employers must provide hearing protection and hearing
protection zones. The level at which employers must assess the risk to workers health and provide
them with information and training is 80 decibels. Workers must not be
exposed to a noise level of more than 87 decibels, taking into account
any reduction in exposure provided by hearing protection.
The complete Control of Noise at Work
Regulations 2005 and the Control of Noise
at Work Regulations 1989 can be viewed by clicking the appropriate link.
Guidance on the 2005 Regulations can be found in the free HSE leaflet Noise at Work and in
the book Controlling Noise at Work (L108) (ISBN 0-7176-6164-4) available from HSE Books or
local bookshops.
Background to the Noise Regulations
The 1989 and the 2005 noise regulations are based on European
Union Directives requiring similar basic laws on protecting
workers from the health risks caused by noise. They do not apply to members of
the public exposed to noise from their non-work activities, or when they make an
informed choice to go to noisy places or from nuisance noise.
The 2005 Noise Regulations replace the 1989 Noise Regulations and introduce
new requirements for action to be taken by employers. For example, the 2005
Regulations require employers to take action to protect workers at levels of
noise 5 dB lower than in the 1989 Regulations and now require regular hearing checks
for workers who are frequently exposed to noise levels above 85 decibels.
Thousands of employees are exposed to loud noise at work and there is a risk
of hearing damage.
Compliance with the Noise Regulations will protect workers hearing.
Further Information:
Regulatory Impact Assessment Final
Advice for employers
Advice for workers
Further information
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