| Exposure to excessive noise at work is still a widespread
problem. All employers
are required to reduce the risks from excessive noise to the lowest levels
which are reasonably practicable.
The Noise at Work Regulations 1989 apply to all workplaces but
cover only risks from hearing damage to people at work. However,
the general duties under the Health and Safety at Work, etc Act
1974 may require action to reduce the risks to others who are not
at work or to reduce the risks other than hearing damage; for example,
because alarms are not loud enough.
If there are noise levels in your workplace high enough to cause
people to shout when trying to communicate with someone about 2m
away, you will need a noise assessment to enable you to comply
with the Regulations. A noise assessment must be carried out by
a competent person. There is guidance available from HSE on the
meaning of competence and on how to choose a consultant.
A good noise assessment will provide:
- information on who is exposed to excessive noise, where and
for how long
- guidance on the selection of appropriate hearing protection
to be worn until other control measures reduce the noise to
non-hazardous levels
- guidance on how to reduce excessive noise levels
We can help you in carrying out the assessment required by the
Regulations. |
