Noise is part of many workplaces from construction sites to factories, even busy offices. But too much noise can harm hearing and lower productivity. A noise assessment helps identify when sound levels become unsafe.

At Gradwell Group, we help UK employers stay compliant with The Control of Noise at Work  Regulations 2005, ensuring every employee works in a safe, sound-controlled environment.

Why Do Noise Assessments Matter?

Excessive noise is one of the most common workplace hazards. According to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), around 17,000 UK workers suffer from hearing problems caused or made worse by loud noise at work each year.

A proper noise assessment not only prevents long-term hearing loss but also helps you:

• Meet HSE legal requirements
  
  
• Identify high-risk areas
  
  
• Plan effective noise control measures
  
  
• Protect employee wellbeing and productivity
  
  

Learn more about Gradwell Group’s Workplace Noise Services.

When is a Noise Assessment Required?

A noise assessment should be carried out when workers are exposed to potentially harmful sound levels or when there are changes in workplace processes that could increase noise.

 Key Situations That Require a Noise Assessment

Noise assessments become necessary when:

• Noise exceeds 80 decibels (dB(A)) averaged over an 8-hour working day.
  
  
• New machinery is introduced.
  
  
• Work processes or layouts change.
  
  
• Employees complain about noise or experience ringing in their ears.
  
  
• Hearing protection seems ineffective.
  
  

 The Legal Triggers

The HSE Control of Noise at Work Regulations 2005 sets two main “action levels”:

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• Lower exposure action value 80 dB(A): employers must assess noise and provide information.
  
  
• Upper exposure action value 85 dB(A): employers must take action to reduce exposure.
  
  

If exposure reaches 87 dB(A) (taking hearing protection into account), this is the maximum limit urgent action is required.

What Happens During a Noise Assessment?

A professional noise assessment involves:

• Measuring sound levels with calibrated equipment.
  
  
• Identifying noisy tasks or machinery.
  
  
• Recording exposure times for employees.
  
  
• Recommending solutions like noise barriers, maintenance, or PPE.
  
  

Assessments should be performed by a qualified acoustic consultant, like those at Gradwell Group, ensuring accurate data and practical recommendations.

How Often Should Noise Assessments Be Reviewed?

Noise assessments aren’t a one-time task. They should be reviewed regularly, especially when:

• Equipment is replaced or repaired.
  
  
• Production increases or working hours change.
  
  
• You rearrange the workspace.
  
  

It’s good practice to review every 2 years, or sooner if any changes occur.

The Risks of Ignoring Workplace Noise

Ignoring noise assessments can lead to:

• Permanent hearing loss or tinnitus
  
  
• Legal penalties under HSE regulations
  
  
• Reduced productivity and morale
  
  
• Costly compensation claims
  
  

According to the British Safety Council, UK businesses lose millions annually due to hearing-related work illnesses.

How Gradwell Group Can Help?

At Gradwell Group, we provide comprehensive workplace noise assessments that:

• Comply with UK health and safety law
  
  
• Identify noise exposure levels accurately
  
  
• Offer practical noise control solutions
  
  
• Protect your workforce and your business reputation
  
  

Visit our Noise & Vibration Services Page to learn how we can help your company stay compliant and safe.

FAQs

1. Who is responsible for a workplace noise assessment?

Employers are legally responsible for ensuring assessments are carried out under the Control of Noise at Work Regulations 2005.

2. How long does a noise assessment take?

It depends on site size, but typically between half a day and one full day.

3. Is noise assessment mandatory for offices?

If office noise levels are below 80 dB(A), a formal assessment isn’t required but it’s still good practice to check.

4. What is considered too loud at work?

Any environment where you must shout to communicate at a distance of 2 metres likely exceeds 80 dB(A).

5. Can employees refuse to work in noisy environments?

If noise levels breach HSE limits and no control measures are in place, employees can raise formal health and safety concerns.

Conclusion

Noise assessments aren’t just a legal requirement they’re an investment in your people’s wellbeing and your company’s future. By acting early, you prevent hearing loss, boost morale, and protect your business from costly risks.

At Gradwell Group, we make noise compliance simple. Our expert consultants deliver reliable assessments and practical noise control strategies tailored to your workplace.

Contact us today to schedule your Workplace Noise Assessment and ensure a quieter, safer, and compliant workspace.

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