Occupational hygiene

Workplace Noise Assessment

Exposure to high noise levels will cause noise induced hearing loss or conditions such as tinnitus. The damage to hearing is slow, painless and permanent. If you have to raise your voice to be heard by someone about 2 meters away, the noise level is probably excessive and a risk assessment should be undertaken by a competent person. Our consultants are able to carry out the noise risk assessment and can identify practical solutions to your problems.

The Control of Noise at Work Regulations 2005

The new Control of Noise at Work Regulations 2005 came into force on 6th April 2006, replacing the Noise at Work Regulations 1989 and introducing lower noise exposure action limits and values. The aim of the new regulations is to ensure that workers are protected from excessive noise levels by controlling exposure The existing action levels were both be reduced by 5dB(A) and replaced by action values of 80dB(A) and 85dB(A) respectively.

Lower Exposure Action Value:
Employers must provide information and training, and undertake a risk assessment where a daily or weekly employee exposure of 80dB(A) is exceeded.

Upper Exposure Action Value:
Hearing protection must be provided and hearing protection zones identified when workers exceed a daily or weekly exposure of 85dB(A).

Exposure Limit Value:
There is also a limit of 87dB(A) above which workers must not be exposed. This takes account of any reduction in exposure due to the provision of hearing protection

Noise Risk Assessment

Noise induced hearing loss can be caused by either a sustained exposure to excessive noise levels or high impulses of noise, which can cause instant damage. Therefore, measurements are taken which assess the average ‘noise dose’ an individual is subjected to throughout the day and also any ‘peaks’ of noise which could result in instant hearing damage. Noise levels measurements are undertaken using an integrating data logging sound level meter or dosemeter worn by an employee for the duration of the working shift. Noise levels are recorded over a period of time in order to assess the personal noise dosage levels. Measurements are included in a report to the client in graphical form, along with recommendations for noise exposure control.

How ALS can help

We can undertake personal noise dosage monitoring and all work ranging from simple noise risk assessments of individual processes or machinery, through to full noise surveys. In every case you will receive a full written report together with recommendations in accordance with the Control of Noise at Work Regulations 2005.

If you feel that you may need a noise risk assessment within your workplace, ring us for an informal chat. This will help us to understand the issues within your workplace and enable us to suggest an assessment programme.

This and many more of our services can be called upon as and when you need them via our > Appointed Safety Advisor Service.

 

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