Conduct your own noise survey at work

Noise at Work needs to be controlled

Exposure to noise in a working environment is a hazard and, like all hazards, it needs to be assessed carefully and then controlled effectively.  Most individuals can cope with loud noise over a short period of time but prolonged exposure to certain levels of noise can damage hearing and lead to permanent hearing loss (noise-induced hearing loss) and auditory disorders.

As an employer operating a noisy plant or workshop, it is your statutory duty to take the necessary steps to protect your employees’ hearing in the workplace.  Civil claims against employers have increased in recent years, and many are successful because not enough safeguards are put in place to protect the hearing of those at work.

Number cruncher: noise exposure levels and exposure action values

The Noise Regulations in the UK currently require employers to take specific action at the following action values. For more detailed information, please visit the Noise: Employers’ responsibilities section of the HSE website.

Our professional sound level meters and personal noise dosemeters will allow your company to comply with the Control of Noise at Work Regulations 2005 and help safeguard your employees’ hearing health.   Taking your own noise level readings with a dedicated noise measurement system in operating areas that represent a problem is easier than you think.  It is the best way to remain in control of the measurement of noise, without having to rely on external consultants every time you introduce new machinery or a working practice.

Typical Sound level meter reading showing LAeq and LCpeak values as required by the regulation

Pulsar Nova sound level meter OLED display showing the main parameters

 Personal exposure noise calculations taken with the Pulsar Noise Dosimeter (PSEM), its Reader and a typical reading

 Let’s not forget the reporting bit

Each range of noise measurement instrumentation from Pulsar has a reporting software option which will help you highlight any locations or equipment which are a cause for concern.   Depending on the model, it will make recommendations as to the prescription of hearing protection suitable under the current noise legislation.  The example below shows a noise measurement summary report made with the Pulsar Nova reporting software: Pulsar AnalyzerPlus.

Guidance on Noise at Work and how to comply is at hand

Pulsar Instruments supply a range of sound level meters that are designed for use by safety professionals in a wide range of working environments. If you want more information and advice on how to prevent hearing loss and comply with Noise at Work Regulations 2005, or wish to purchase a compliant sound meter that is suitable for industrial noise monitoring applications, call Pulsar Instruments on 01723 518011 or visit www.pulsarinstruments.com