Noise at Work: Protecting Your Employees' Hearing

The Hidden Danger

Noise-induced hearing loss develops gradually over years of exposure. By the time someone notices difficulty hearing conversations or persistent ringing in their ears (tinnitus), the damage is done. There is no cure.

Around 17,000 people in the UK suffer deafness, tinnitus, or other ear conditions caused by excessive noise at work. This makes hearing loss one of the most common occupational health problems, yet it is entirely preventable.

Understanding Noise Levels

Sound is measured in decibels (dB). The decibel scale is logarithmic, meaning that an increase of 3 dB represents a doubling of sound energy. What might seem like a small increase is actually significant.

To put workplace noise in context:

Legal Requirements

The Control of Noise at Work Regulations 2005 set out specific duties based on daily or weekly noise exposure levels:

Lower exposure action value (80 dB): You must assess the risk, provide information and training, and make hearing protection available.

Upper exposure action value (85 dB): You must take action to reduce exposure, establish hearing protection zones, and ensure hearing protection is worn.

Exposure limit value (87 dB): This must not be exceeded, taking account of the protection provided by hearing protection.

Conducting a Noise Assessment

If you suspect noise might be a problem, you need a competent person to carry out a noise assessment. As a rough guide, if people have to shout to be heard at two metres distance, noise levels are likely above 85 dB.

A proper assessment identifies who is exposed, measures or estimates noise levels, and determines what actions are needed. It should be reviewed if circumstances change or if there is reason to believe it is no longer valid.

Controlling Noise Exposure

The hierarchy of control applies to noise just as it does to other hazards:

Hearing protection should not be the first choice. It is uncomfortable, can make communication difficult, and its effectiveness depends on proper fitting and consistent use.

Selecting and Using Hearing Protection

If hearing protection is necessary, it must be suitable for the noise levels and working conditions. Over-protection can be as problematic as under-protection, as it isolates workers and prevents them hearing warnings or colleagues.

Workers must be trained in the proper use, care, and storage of hearing protection. Ear plugs need to be inserted correctly, and ear defenders need to seal properly around the ears. Damaged or worn equipment must be replaced.

Health Surveillance

Where employees are regularly exposed above the upper action value, health surveillance in the form of hearing checks (audiometry) should be provided. This helps identify early signs of hearing damage so that action can be taken before it becomes disabling.

How We Can Help

Integral Safety can help you assess noise risks in your workplace, identify control measures, and develop policies and procedures for managing noise exposure. Our consultants can advise on compliance with the Noise at Work Regulations and help you protect your workforce from this preventable condition. Contact us to discuss your needs.