Workplace Noise

Excessive noise levels in the workplace can lead to noise induced hearing loss on a permanent basis. They can also cause temporary hearing loss known as threshold shift. It is therefore important that noise levels are reduced wherever possible and exposed individuals are protected where necessary.

The Control of Noise at Work Regulations 2005 demands that a full and thorough assessment of the workplace be undertaken where there is a suspicion that employees are exposed to excessive noise levels. Three action levels are highlighted in the Regulations:

• Lower Exposure Action Level of 80 dB(A) and peak sound pressure of 112Pa (135 dB(C))
• Upper Exposure Action Level of 85 dB(A) and peak sound pressure of 140Pa (137 dB(C))
• Exposure Limit Value of 87 dB(A) and peak sound pressure of 200Pa

There are also three peak limits which operate alongside the action values.

Where excessive noise levels have been identified the expectation is to ‘Control’ the noise to acceptable levels by either eliminating the noise or adopting other control strategies. The employees should also be placed under mandatory health surveillance when necessary. This will involve hearing tests known as audiometry.

With this in mind, every employer should be asking these three important questions:

• Are employees exposed to damaging noise levels in my factory?
• If so, have I done all I can to assess their exposure?
• And, have I done all I can to reduce their exposure?

If you are unsure of any of these questions further guidance should be sought and full a survey and assessment carried out. The assessment should include an evaluation of employees’ personal noise exposure over their working day (LEP.d) and not just a measure of noise levels in a given area. Newcastle Occupational Health and Hygiene Ltd. offer comprehensive full site workplace noise surveys and assessments in line with the Control of Noise at Work Regulations 2005. We use state of the art scientific devices to assess the workplace and measure personal noise exposure levels. Our reports not only include details of noise levels and exposures but offer full recommendations and remedial action plan to ensure compliance with the Regulations. They also include an assessment of any protection offered by the employer.

For further advice on all aspects of The Control of Noise at Work Regulations 2005, please do not hesitate to contact Newcastle Occupational Health and Hygiene Ltd.