Noise at Work: Updated Guidance
Noise is a common hazard in many workplaces, and it can cause significant damage to hearing if workers are not adequately protected. The Control of Noise at Work Regulations 2005 sets out legal requirements for employers to protect workers from exposure to excessive noise. In 2021, the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) updated its guidance on noise at work to help employers meet their legal obligations and protect workers’ hearing. This article will provide an overview of the updated guidance and how it affects employers.
What is the Control of Noise at Work Regulations 2005?
The Control of Noise at Work Regulations 2005 is a set of regulations that sets out legal requirements for employers to protect their workers from exposure to excessive noise in the workplace. The regulations apply to all workplaces where noise is a hazard, including factories, construction sites, and music venues. The regulations set out specific requirements for employers, such as carrying out noise assessments, providing hearing protection, and limiting workers’ exposure to noise.
What are the legal limits for noise exposure?
The Control of Noise at Work Regulations 2005 sets out legal limits for noise exposure in the workplace. The legal limits are based on two values: the lower exposure action value (LEAV) and the upper exposure action value (UEAV). The LEAV is 80 decibels (dB), and the UEAV is 85 dB. Employers must take action if workers are exposed to noise levels above the LEAV, and they must take further action if workers are exposed to noise levels above the UEAV.
What are the requirements for noise assessments?
Employers must carry out noise assessments to identify where there is a risk to workers’ hearing from exposure to noise. The assessments should include measurements of noise levels and an assessment of the risk to workers’ hearing. Employers should also identify where hearing protection is required and where noise control measures are necessary
What are the requirements for hearing protection?
Employers must provide hearing protection to workers who are exposed to noise levels above the LEAV. The hearing protection should be suitable for the level of noise and the worker’s job, and it should be comfortable to wear. Employers should also provide information and training on how to use and maintain hearing protection.
What are the requirements for noise control measures?
Employers should implement noise control measures where it is reasonably practicable to do so. This may include using quieter equipment, enclosing noisy machinery, or creating barriers between workers and sources of noise.
What is the updated guidance?
The HSE updated its guidance on noise at work in 2021 to help employers meet their legal obligations and protect workers’ hearing. The updated guidance provides more detailed information on how to comply with the Control of Noise at Work Regulations 2005 and how to carry out noise assessments. The guidance also provides advice on how to choose suitable hearing protection and how to implement noise control measures.
What are the key changes in the updated guidance?
The updated guidance includes several key changes, including:
- More detailed information on how to carry out noise assessments
- Guidance on how to choose suitable hearing protection
- Advice on how to implement noise control measures
- Information on how to communicate with workers about noise risks
- Guidance on how to manage noise risks over time
How does the updated guidance affect employers?
Employers should review their current noise risk assessments and ensure they are up to date and compliant with the updated guidance. Employers should also consider whether they need to take any additional measures to protect workers’ hearing. This may include providing additional hearing protection or implementing additional noise control measures.
Conclusion
The updated guidance on noise at work provides employers with more detailed information on how to comply with the Control of Noise at Work Regulations 2005 and how to protect workers’ hearing. It is essential that employers review their current noise risk assessments and take action to protect workers from excessive noise exposure.
FAQ’s
What is the legal limit for noise exposure in the workplace?
The legal limit for noise exposure in the workplace is 80 decibels (dB) for the lower exposure action value (LEAV) and 85 dB for the upper exposure action value (UEAV).
What are the requirements for noise assessments?
Employers must carry out noise assessments to identify where there is a risk to workers’ hearing from exposure to noise. The assessments should include measurements of noise levels and an assessment of the risk to workers’ hearing.
What are the requirements for hearing protection?
Employers must provide hearing protection to workers who are exposed to noise levels above the LEAV. The hearing protection should be suitable for the level of noise and the worker’s job, and it should be comfortable to wear.
What are the requirements for noise control measures?
Employers should implement noise control measures where it is reasonably practicable to do so. This may include using quieter equipment, enclosing noisy machinery, or creating barriers between workers and sources of noise.
How does the updated guidance affect employers?
Employers should review their current noise risk assessments and ensure they are up to date and compliant with the updated guidance. Employers should also consider whether they need to take any additional measures to protect workers’ hearing.
