Occupational Noise Assessments

Noise at work can lead to hearing problems such as hearing loss and tinnitus. The Control of Noise at Work Regulations 2005, which came into effect in 2006, was created to protect workers from the damaging effects of noise exposure. We provide assessments of occupational noise so you can ensure that your workers are safe from hearing damage and that you are in compliance with regulation.

Why choose occupational noise assessments from SGS?

Over 1,000,000 employees in Great Britain are exposed to noise levels that put their hearing at risk. Prolonged exposure to noise can result in temporary hearing loss, which can gradually become permanent. Sudden, explosive noises can cause immediate permanent hearing damage. Exposure to noise can also cause tinnitus – ringing, whistling, buzzing or humming in the ear. This distressing condition can disturb sleep.

Your employees may be at risk if they:

• Work in a noisy industry such as construction, demolition or road repair; woodworking; manufacturing; general fabrication; forging, pressing or stamping; canning or bottling or foundries
• Are exposed to intrusive noise – for example in a crowded restaurant, on a busy street or during drilling operations – for most of the day
• Use noisy power tools or machinery for more than half an hour each day
• Are exposed to explosive noises, such as from guns or cartridge operated tools or detonators
• Are exposed to noises from impacts, such as from hammering, drop forging or the use of pneumatic impact tools
• Have to raise their voices to carry out a normal conversation when only two meters apart for at least part of the day

The law states that you must protect the hearing of your employees by assessing and identifying measures to eliminate or reduce risks from exposure to noise. If risks are low, simple, inexpensive actions can be taken. If risks are high, you must implement a noise control action plan, ensuring that:

• Hearing protection is provided and used
• Any other controls are used properly
• Information, training and health surveillance is provided

We can help you to comply with the law and prevent damage to your workers' hearing by performing an occupational noise assessment and designing a noise control action plan when needed. Our experienced occupational hygienists are certified by the British Occupational Hygiene Society (BOHS) to carry out workplace assessments in any workplace environment. We can carry out noise assessments anywhere on the UK mainland, offshore and around the world.

Unmatched experience in occupational safety services

As the world's leading testing, inspection, certification, testing and verification company, we have the skills, experience and resources to protect the safety of your workers.

Contact us today to learn more about occupational noise assessments.