Workplace Noise Resources
What is noise-induced hearing loss?
Noise-induced hearing loss is sensory deafness caused by long-term exposure of the auditory system to a noisy environment. Auditory fatigue is an early symptom of noise-induced hearing loss, and hearing can gradually recover after people leave a noisy environment. However, if people remain in a noisy environment for a prolonged period of time, their hearing will be permanently impaired.
Combined exposure to noise and ototoxic substances
According to the European Risk Observatory Report “Noise in Figures” published by the European Agency for Safety and Health at Work (EU-OSHA, 2006), noise-induced hearing loss is one of the most prominent occupational diseases in Europe. The report, however, clearly states that noise is no longer perceived as the only source of work-related hearing damage and concludes that more attention is required to the matter of combined risks for workers exposed to high-level noise with work-related substances.
Control of Noise at Work Regulations 2005 – How do I select a workplace noise consultant?
This document is a buyer’s guide to help you pick a consultant who will be able to help you understand the level of noise risk in your workplace and provide you with advice on noise control methods.
Are Your Construction Tools Affecting Your Hearing?
Did you know that 1 million people are exposed to hearing-damaging noise at work? If you work in construction, you’re most likely aware that the industry is a noisy business. But did you also know that the sector has the second highest rate of people developing occupational deafness?
HSE - Topic Inspection Pack (Noise)
This Appendix to the Noise Topic Inspection Pack provides information on established noise control methods for a range of high-risk activities, organised according to industry/sector.
Best Practice in Noise Control - PowerPoint
Noise Management - Noise Control Best Practice Powerpoint
Let's Make Noise About Noise Management Webinar
Noise in Figures - (European Agency for Safety & Health at Work)
Working life in Europe is changing at an ever-increasing speed, which can give rise to new risk areas or change the way that occupational safety and health needs to be managed....
Listen Up! How to manage workplace noise induced hearing loss...
Apple Watch Series 5
Apple Watch inspires a healthier life all round. It monitors your heart rate and lets you know if something is wrong. Helps you keep track of your menstrual cycle and taps you if noise levels rise to a point that could impact your hearing. You can also add complications like Breathe, Heart Rate and Noise to your watch face and keep them top of mind throughout your day. It’s the first watch that really watches out for you.
Controlling noise at work - The Control of Noise at Work Regulations 2005
Guidance on Regulations (L108)
This new edition of L108 provides guidance for employers on protecting people from the risks caused by noise at work. As well as setting out the legal obligations of employers under the new Control of Noise at Work Regulations 2005, it introduces a revised approach to the management and control of noise in the workplace.
HSE Presentation - Health Surveillance for Noise Induced Hearing Loss
Short presentation covering key points for health surveillance for noise induced hearing loss.
Myth-buster - Noise in music and entertainment sectors
Myth-busting questions/answers for workers and public with regards to noise in the music and entertainment sectors.
Noise - Don’t lose your hearing! (INDG363(rev2))
Excellent short guide to inform employees about noise at work.
Noise at work - A brief guide to controlling the risks (INDG362(rev2))
Loud noise at work can damage people’s hearing and lead to risks to safety. This leaflet explains what an employer needs to do under the Control of Noise at Work Regulations 2005 to protect their employees from noise. It will also be useful to employees and their representatives.
Noise reduction at band re-saws - HSE information sheet - Woodworking Information Sheet No 4 (rev2)
This information sheet provides guidance for employers and other dutyholders on how noise from band re-saws is generated and how you can reduce it at source using engineering controls. It also explains how to build a noise-reducing enclosure to separate workers from the noise source.
Reducing noise at woodworking machines - HSE information sheet - Woodworking Information Sheet No 13 (rev2)
This information sheet is aimed at employers in the woodworking industry and gives advice on controlling the risks from noise. It supplements the leaflet INDG362 Noise at work: A brief guide to controlling the risks.
Sound solutions for the food and drink industries - Reducing noise in food and drink manufacturing (HSG232)
This book gives examples of simple, cost-effective ways of reducing the risk of hearing damage to workers in the food and drink industries. It contains 60 case studies showing how companies have found successful solutions to problems created by high noise levels.
Top 10 Noise Control Techniques
Ten simple noise control techniques that have wide application across the whole of industry. In many cases, they will produce substantial noise reductions quickly and cheaply - with little or no effect on normal operation or use.
Sound advice Control of noise at work in music and entertainment (HSG260)
Sound advice contains practical guidance on the control of noise at work in music and entertainment, including concert halls and theatres, amplified live music venues, pubs/clubs and studios. It has been put together by representatives from a wide range of music and entertainment sectors in Britain, including Environmental Health Officers and the Health and Safety Executive (HSE).
