The Noise at Work Regulations

The Noise at Work Regulations requires sound levels to be maintained within clearly defined limits. But even below these parameters, noise can at the least constitute a nuisance and, at the worst, seriously affect health as well as the quality of life and work conditions.

The Noise at Work Regulations refers to following three action levels:

• 'First action level' of 85 dB(A) daily personal noise exposure,
• 'Second action level' of 90 dB(A),
• 'Peak action level' of 140dB.

The Noise at Work Regulations state that when employees are likely to be exposed to the first action level or above then a noise assessment should be made to identify which employees are so exposed. Subsequent to this assessment consideration may need to be given to reducing noise exposure where reasonably practicable, providing hearing protection where applicable, and defining ear protection zones. For those employees exposed to the first action level or above it will be necessary for the employer to provide information, instruction and training on:

• The risk of damage to hearing,
• What can be done by the employees to minimise that risk,
• The steps that the employee must take to obtain personal ear protection,

The employee’s obligations.