In the UK, employers are obligated to protect their employees from noise exposure within the workplace under the Control of Noise at Work Regulations: 2005. The Control of Noise at Work Regulations require employers to:
- Assess the risk to employees’ hearing from noise at work;
- Take action to reduce employee noise exposure;
- Provide employees with hearing protection if noise exposure cannot be reduced by other methods;
- Ensure legal limits on noise exposure are not exceeded;
- Provide employees with information, instruction and training;
- Carry out health surveillance where there is a risk to health.
Depending on the level of noise exposure, the Control of Noise at Work Regulations requires employers to take specific action at certain action values. These exposure values relate to the level of noise exposure averaged over a working day or week. Exposure values are currently defined as:
| Descriptor | Exposure Value | Action to be Taken |
|---|---|---|
| Below Lower Exposure Action Value | Under 80dB(A) (LEP,d) | For a noise exposure level under the Lower Exposure Action Level there are no requirements to provide hearing protection |
| Lower Exposure Action Value | 80dB(A) (LEP,d) | For a noise exposure level at or above the Lower Exposure Action Level, hearing protection must be made available to employees |
| Upper Exposure Action Value | 85dB(A) (LEP,d) | For a noise exposure level at or above the Upper Exposure Action Level, hearing protection is to be worn by all exposed employees without exception |
| Exposure Limit Value | 87dB(A) (LEP,d) | This level of exposure should not be exceeded and may take attenuation from hearing protection into account |
At Clement Acoustics, we offer high-quality noise at work assessments. Our consultants will attend site to undertake manual measurements of employee noise exposure levels. Liaison with employers is an important step in the general assessment, as precise information helps us to formulate an overall ‘noise-exposure scenario’ relating the measured noise levels with the actual working times of staff.
Noise measurement data collected during our site visit, in parallel with the information about work patterns, helps us to construct a realistic noise exposure scenario for all employees.
We then produce a detailed noise at work assessment in accordance with the Control of Noise at Work Regulations (2005) describing our survey methodology, data analysis and final outcomes. If the results demonstrate non-compliance with noise exposure limits as set out in the Control of Noise at Work Regulations: 2005, practical solutions will be suggested for the protection of employees.
How often do I need a Noise at Work Assessment?
There is no specific frequency at which noise at work assessments need to be conducted, however regular assessments ensure that the working environment remains healthy for all employees. Machinery can deteriorate with time, so regular assessments allow employers to identify potential issues before they become problematic. It is generally recommended for noise at work assessments to be conducted and reviewed at least every two years, although insurance providers and specific employers may stipulate differently.
Book your Noise at Work Assessment with Clement Acoustics
If you require a Noise at Work Assessment in London, Manchester, or anywhere else in the UK, or abroad, our fully trained and experienced acoustic consultants are available to provide high-quality, expert service, using state-of-the-art equipment and processes.
Our assessments fwill accurately predict noise exposure levels for all employees and suggest effective mitigation measures while adhering to all relevant standards and regulations.
To learn more about what we do, look at examples of our recent work and speak to one of our team on 0203 475 2280 (South), 0161 850 2280 (North), or email info@clementacoustics.co.uk. We look forward to hearing from you.