Controlling noise

The risk assessment must also identify the measures needed to meet the requirements of the regulations. Where the assessment shows that employees are likely to be exposed at the upper EAV or above, employers must reduce noise through a “programme of organisational and technical measures” (Regulation 6).

Employers have to consider:

• other working methods which reduce exposure to noise;

• the choice of appropriate work equipment emitting the least possible noise, taking account of the work to be done;

• the design and layout of workplaces, work stations and rest facilities;

• suitable and sufficient information and training for employees, such that work equipment may be used correctly, in order to minimise their exposure to noise;

• reduction of noise by technical means;

• appropriate maintenance programmes for work equipment, the workplace and workplace systems;

• limitation of the duration and intensity of exposure to noise; and

• appropriate work schedules with adequate rest periods.

Employers must not expose workers to levels of noise above the ELV. If the ELV is exceeded, employers must reduce exposure to below that level and prevent it happening again.

Regulation 6 contains a specific clause requiring “employees concerned or their representatives to be consulted on the measures to be taken to meet the requirements of this regulation”.