Noise at Work
Over 1 million employees in Great Britain are exposed to levels
of noise that put their hearing at risk. In 2007/2008 21,000
individuals who worked in the last 12 months suffered work-related
hearing loss, according to the Labour Force Survey.
Noise-induced hearing loss has been recognised by the World
Health Organisation as 'the most prevalent, irreversible industrial
disease'. Hearing loss may not only stop a person working to their
full potential; it can destroy a person's social life, isolating
them from the community around them.
Noise is an unwanted sound and its effects are from a
combination of the intensity(loudness) and duration of
exposure.
Noise is a serious but often neglected work-related risk that
can cost you more than your hearing. Prolonged exposure to loud
noise can lead to hearing disabilities but noise can also cause or
be a factor in:
- causing harm to the ears through exposure to dangerous
substances
- work-related stress
- an increased risk of workplace accidents
- harm to a worker's unborn child.
Many workers are exposed but compliance with the Regulations
will protect against occupational deafness and noise induced
hearing loss. Noise at work is regulated by the Control of Noise at
Work Regulations 2005. In accordance with these regulations:
- At a level of 80 decibels employers must assess the risk and
provided information and training for workers
- At 85 decibels (daily or weekly exposure) employers must
provide hearing protection
- Workers must not be exposed to a level exceeding the exposure
limit of 87 decibels.