Noise Safety

Noise

Noise is classed as a Physical Agent. The unit of measurement is in units known as Decibels dB(A).

As a general guide, if it is difficult to hear a normal conversation at a distance of 2 metres from the person speaking, it is likely that the noise levels in the area are above the levels permitted under the Regulations (i.e. Over 80dB (A)) - Chapter 1, Part 5 of the General Application Regulations 2007.

Risks for Employees Exposed to Noise

Exposure to high levels of noise, can cause the following;

Stress
Tinnitus (i.e. Buzzing or Ringing sound in your ears)
Permanent Hearing Loss (Also known as Noise Induced Hearing Loss)
Increased risk of accidents

Employees MUST be informed

That the noise level is likely to exceed 85dB(A)
The potential risk of damage to their hearing
Measurements of the noise levels taken
Given an explanation of the significance of the results
What controls are in place to reduce the noise levels

Training for Your Employees

Employers Responsibilities - Noise Induced Hearing Loss

Employers should reduce the level of noise & the length of time Employees are exposed.

A Time-Weighted average of the daily noise exposure levels for a normal week of a five eight hour working days.

This may be used by Employer to determine the noise exposure to employees if the daily noise exposure varies from one working day to the next.

Risk Assessment for Noise

Employers should pay particular attention should be given to the following;

The level, type & duration of the exposure
The work employees carry out or are likely to carry out
The routine in which work is been carried out by employees
Variations in the type of work
Identification of the immediate risk
Identify what is possible to control, and how the risk can be reduced
The exposure limit values and the exposure action values
The availability of alternative equipment which is provided to reduce the noise emission.
That ear protection is available and must be worn
Health Surveillance made available to Employees whose Risk Assessment revealed a risk to their health, in particular their hearing.
Records to be kept for a minimum of 10 years

Source: www.hsa.ie