Noise

High levels of noise and long periods of exposure are the commonest causes of hearing damage, but damage can also occur as a result of single loud noise.  Hearing damage is cumulative so that the more often people are exposed to high levels of noise the greater will be the damage suffered.

Noise can result from a variety of sources including powered tools, machinery, vehicles and work processes (e.g. hammering inside a closed space). 

If you cannot hear someone talk from 2 m distance, the noise level is probably at or above 85 dB (A). This is the upper end of the exposure action value, set through EU (see table below) and a competent person must carry out a noise assessment and a record of the results kept.  Actions at this level include;

• Inform employees of the hazards and the precautions they must take

• Provide hearing protection to those who request it.

The exposure limit value occur when noise is at or above 87 dB (A).  At these levels employers must;

• Take all reasonable steps to reduce noise levels other than by the provision of hearing protection

• Clearly mark the zones where noise reaches these levels and restrict entry to authorised persons only

• Provide and enforce the wearing of hearing protection for all who enter these zones

The principal safety measure is noise reduction in the work areas.  This can be achieved by a number of steps including;

• Installing quiet machines and processes.  Obtain noise information from the manufacturer before purchasing machines and equipment

• Change the existing plant and process to reduce the noise levels

• Enclose noisy machines with acoustic barriers.  Make sure that these are properly designed to prevent noise leakage

• Put noisy machines and process in separate rooms

• Ensure equipment is properly maintained and lubricated

Check the national statutory requirements for noise exposure limits.

Noise characteristic assessments may be needed to establish the correct type or noise reduction techniques or ear defenders.