Objectives
Protect hearing, whilst at work, from noise induced hearing loss.
Protect members of the public from noise nuisance, where this results from organisationaloperations.
Establish a hearing conservation programme that:
- Clearly identifies areas where the hearing of individuals can be at risk.
- Informs and trains those working in such areas.
- Reduces noise at source where feasible.
- Sets mandatory standards for Hearing Protection.
Assessment
A simple Local Assessment can be carried out on a "rule of thumb" basis.
If employees have to shout, or are having difficulty being heard clearly by someone about 2m away, then the noise is too loud.
If work equipment is the main source of noise the manufacturers will be able advise on the expected the level of sound pressure emitted. However an assessment with a sound level meter is the only way to identify the true level of sound pressure that operators or bystanders receive during the day by including all background and other sounds.
There is also a duty to advise employees if they will be working where the noise levels are between 85 and 90dB. At Levels above 90 dB(A) all employees are required by law to wear ear defence.
Protection
Ear Protectors must be appropriate for the frequency range of the noise and achieve a degree of attenuation so that the noise level at the ear is below 85dB(A).
In some circumstances, it will be necessary, because of the level or type of noise, for the appropriate ear protector to be strictly specified. However, whenever possible a degree of user choice should be provided.
Options will include: Ear Muffs, Disposable Ear Plugs and Re-Usable Insert Protectors.
On occasions, there may be other requirements such as Helmet Muffs, or Muffs with Visors for strimmer operators and Arboriculturalists.
Hearing Loss
Although most work related hearing loss is a gradual process, because unprotected exposure to excessive continuous workplace sound pressure destroys the hearing receptors within the ear for the frequency range of the pressure, the subsequent hearing loss cannot be reversed. Therefore devices such as hearing aids are ineffective.
References
The Noise at Work Regulations 1989
These have now been replaced by Control of Noise at Work Regulations 2005 (the Noise Regulations)