What is a Noise Risk Assessment?
A Noise Risk Assessment is a simple evaluation used to determine whether noise levels in your workplace could pose a risk to employees. It is a preliminary check that helps businesses identify whether a full noise assessment is required under the Control of Noise at Work Regulations 2005.
Excessive noise exposure can lead to hearing loss, tinnitus, and reduced workplace safety. If your employees work in noisy environments, this initial risk assessment is essential to ensure compliance and protect their well-being.
Why is a Noise Risk Assessment Important?
A Noise Risk Assessment is the first step in ensuring your business meets legal requirements and maintains a safe working environment. Here’s why it matters:
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- Legal Compliance – Under UK law, employers must assess and control noise exposure risks.
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- Employee Well-being – Prolonged noise exposure can cause irreversible hearing damage.
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- Improved Productivity – High noise levels can reduce concentration and efficiency.
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- Preventing Future Costs – Hearing loss claims and legal actions can be expensive.
If you’re unsure whether your workplace needs a full noise assessment, this guide will help you determine if further action is required.
Signs That You Need a Full Noise Assessment
If your workplace meets any of the following criteria, a professional noise assessment is recommended:
1. Employees Need to Raise Their Voices to Communicate
A key indicator is whether workers must shout or raise their voices to communicate at a distance of 2 metres or less.
2. Noisy Machinery or Tools Are Used
Common workplace equipment that may exceed safe noise levels includes:
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- Power tools (e.g., drills, saws, grinders)
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- Presses and punch machines
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- Forklift trucks and heavy vehicles
3. Employees Report Hearing Issues
If workers experience temporary deafness, ringing in the ears (tinnitus), or muffled hearing after work, noise exposure may be too high.
4. The Workplace is Constantly Noisy
Does your workplace have a continuous background noise from machines, ventilation, or industrial processes? Even moderate noise levels over long periods can cause hearing damage.
5. Noise Levels are Estimated to Exceed 80 dB(A)
If workplace noise levels regularly exceed 80 dB(A), the employer must provide information and training about the risks. If levels reach 85 dB(A), hearing protection zones and controls become mandatory.
Not sure how to estimate your noise levels? Our free Noise Risk Assessment template can help.
How to Conduct a Noise Risk Assessment
A basic Noise Risk Assessment can be carried out in five simple steps:
Step 1: Identify Potential Noise Sources
Walk through your workplace and list areas with loud machinery, tools, or processes. Pay attention to workstations with prolonged exposure to noise.
Step 2: Observe and Record Workplace Noise Levels
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- Do employees raise their voices to communicate?
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- Are any noise complaints recorded?
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- Do workers show signs of noise-related fatigue or hearing discomfort?
Step 3: Measure or Estimate Noise Levels
Use a basic noise level meter or a smartphone app, such as the NIOSH SLM app, as an initial guide. If levels are close to or above 80 dB(A), further assessment is needed.
Step 4: Evaluate the Risk and Identify Control Measures
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- Can noise levels be reduced by modifying processes or using quieter equipment?
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- Is hearing protection available?
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- Are there areas where noise exposure can be limited?
Step 5: Decide if a Full Noise Assessment is Required
If your findings indicate a potential noise hazard, you must arrange a professional Noise Assessment to measure exposure levels accurately and ensure compliance.
Need a Professional Noise Assessment?
If your preliminary assessment suggests high noise levels, it’s essential to conduct a detailed Noise Assessment. At SNR Noise Consultants, we provide workplace Noise Assessments to ensure compliance with UK regulations
Our expert consultants use state-of-the-art noise monitoring equipment to deliver accurate results and tailored noise control solutions.
📞 Contact us today to schedule a Noise Assessment and ensure your workplace meets legal and safety standards.
By performing a Noise Risk Assessment, you take the first step towards ensuring a safe and compliant workplace. Don’t wait until noise-related issues arise—take action today!
