Risks: Noise

Noise is defined as unwanted or harmful sound. Noise is part of everyday life, but loud noise can permanently damage hearing. Hearing loss can be gradual, due to prolonged exposure to loud noise.

Our ears are full of very sensitive cells that allow us to hear. Exposure to loud noise can damage these cells. This damage can be caused by a single, very loud noise, such as an explosion (which can make you deaf immediately), or by longer exposure to loud noise, such as machinery or loud music at work.

Exposure to excessive noise at work can lead to deafness, tinnitus and other ear conditions.

You should take action if any of the following apply in your workplace:

• Workers are surrounded by intrusive noise from everyday life, e.g. busy street for most of the working day
• Workers have to raise their voice to be heard by someone just two metres away
• Workers use noisy power tools or machinery for more than half an hour a day
• People who work with noise caused by ‘impacts’ (e.g. hammering, drop-forging) or explosive sources such as detonators or guns

A wide range of workplaces and industries involve exposure to loud and prolonged noise, including workshops, forestry, construction, road building and sawmills. Noise is not generally a problem in offices and shops.

Workboost Wales has specialist advisers who can help you assess and reduce the risks of noise in your workplace. Call us now on 0845 609 6006 – remember our advice is free and confidential.

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