Occupational Noise
HSE research estimates that 170,000 people in the UK suffer from deafness, tinnitus or other ear conditions as a result of exposure to excessive noise at work. Currently the Noise at Work Regulations 1989 govern noise exposure in the workplace.
The implementation of the European Physical Agents (Noise) Directive as the Control of Noise at Work Regulations 2005 came into force on 6th April 2006. These regulations replaced the existing Noise at Work Regulations. The main changes are the reduction by 5dB of the exposure levels at which action has to be taken, and the introduction of a new exposure limit value and a specific requirement on health surveillance. In practice this means that there will be a requirement to ensure that noise exposure levels are reduced to meet the new regulations.
Noise-induced hearing loss is usually gradual, due to prolonged exposure to noise, although it can be caused immediately by sudden, extremely loud, explosive noises such as from guns or cartridge-operated machines. It is irreversible, but completely preventable. Research suggests that just over a million people are exposed to potentially hazardous noise at work (source: Health and Safety Executive).
How IOM Consulting can help:
- Assess occupational noise exposure levels for individuals and groups
- Identify where employees are exposed to excessive noise levels of occupational noise
- Produce "noise-maps" highlighting areas where occupational noise may require control
- Provide practical noise control engineering advice
- Assess the suitability of hearing protection, and provide best advice on protecting employees from excessive noise exposure
- Provide Expert Witness Service
- Supply information and training to staff on the effects of noise and noise induced hearing loss. The IOM runs courses accredited by the Institute of Acoustics on Workplace Noise Assessment