Exposure to high levels of noise, either continuously or as a loud sudden ‘bang’ from equipment such as cartridge-operated tools or guns, can have a number of physiological and psychological effects on workers. This may include stress, tinnitus and if exposed to high noise levels over long periods of time, permanent loss of hearing can occur. High noise levels can also interfere with communications in the workplace, leading to an increased risk of accidents.
Employers are legally obliged to inform their workers and their representatives:
- that the noise level is likely to exceed 85 dBA and of the potential risk of damage to hearing
- about the measurements taken of the noise levels and an explanation of the significance of the results
- about what is being done to reduce the noise levels
Noise Monitoring Services provided by LCE Workplace Safety include:
- Noise Workplace Risk Assessments
- Individual machine assessment
- Site noise surveys
- Verification of compliance with URS and/or CE requirements
- Noise monitoring in ATEX areas
- Noise Awareness Training
Who needs Noise Monitoring?
Employers are required to carry out a risk assessment where employees are liable to be exposed to noise at work above the lower exposure action level of 80dBA.