Noise might seem harmless, but in the workplace, it’s a silent threat. A workplace noise assessment identifies where excessive noise could harm your employees and helps you stay compliant with UK law.

Many UK industries from construction and manufacturing to logistics and engineering face daily exposure to damaging noise levels. Over time, this can lead to permanent hearing loss, stress, and reduced concentration.

So, why should a workplace noise assessment be conducted? Let’s explore how it protects your people, your reputation, and your business.

What is a Workplace Noise Assessment?

A workplace noise assessment measures and evaluates sound levels across your premises. It determines how much noise employees are exposed to during their working day and identifies risks to their hearing health.

The process isn’t just about numbers, it’s about creating a safer, more productive environment where staff can work without harm.

Legal Duty & Compliance

Under the Control of Noise at Work Regulations 2005, employers are legally required to assess and control noise exposure at work.

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Here’s what that means for your business:

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• At 80 dB(A) You must carry out a formal noise assessment.
  
  
• At 85 dB(A) You must take action to reduce exposure and provide hearing protection.
  
  
• At 87 dB(A) The legal limit is reached, and exposure must not be exceeded.
  
  

Failure to meet these regulations can result in HSE enforcement, penalties, or even prosecution.  Learn more from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) here: HSE – Noise at Work Regulations.

Protecting Employee Hearing and Wellbeing

Noise-induced hearing loss is permanent and entirely preventable. According to the HSE, around 17,000 people in the UK suffer work-related hearing loss each year a figure that’s both shocking and avoidable. A professional noise risk assessment helps identify employees at risk and introduces measures such as:

• Engineering controls installing quieter machinery or barriers.
  
  
• Administrative controls rotating staff to reduce exposure time.
  
  
• Personal protective equipment (PPE) using certified hearing protection.
  
  

A quieter workplace isn’t just safer it’s more productive. Reduced noise means clearer communication, better focus, and fewer mistakes.

Preventing Liability and Costly Claims

Ignoring noise risks isn’t just unsafe it’s expensive. If staff suffer hearing loss due to unmanaged workplace noise, businesses could face:

• Compensation claims
  
  
• Insurance increases
  
  
• Regulatory fines
  
  
• Reputation damage
  
  

A workplace noise assessment acts as proof of diligence and care. It demonstrates that you’ve taken the necessary steps to protect your team and meet your legal obligations.

Boosting Productivity and Staff Morale

Noise doesn’t only affect hearing it affects focus, communication, and morale. Studies show that excessive noise reduces concentration and increases fatigue.

When you reduce workplace noise, you gain:

• Improved employee performance and accuracy
  
  
• Higher morale and job satisfaction
  
  
• Fewer accidents due to better concentration
  
  
• Enhanced professional reputation
  
  

Simply put, quieter environments make for happier, healthier teams.

When Should a Noise Assessment Be Conducted?

You should carry out or update a workplace noise assessment when:

• You install new machinery or equipment.
  
  
• The layout of your site changes.
  
  
• You receive employee complaints about noise.
  
  
• You’ve not reviewed your assessment for two years or more.
  
  
• There are visible signs of hearing issues among workers.
  
  

Routine assessments ensure your workplace remains compliant and safe as operations evolve.

Who Should Carry It Out?

A noise assessment must be completed by a competent, qualified professional someone trained in acoustic measurement and UK noise standards.

That’s where Gradwell Group comes in. Our acoustic consultants have years of experience providing precise, compliant Workplace Noise Assessments across the UK.

We combine advanced sound-level monitoring with expert interpretation to deliver clear, actionable results.

How Gradwell Group Can Help?

At Gradwell Group, we go beyond ticking boxes. We help you understand, manage, and control noise across your business.

Our comprehensive Noise Assessment Services include:

• On-site sound level monitoring
  
  
• Noise mapping for risk identification
  
  
• Exposure analysis for individual employees
  
  
• Compliance reports aligned with HSE standards
  
  
• Tailored recommendations for practical noise control
  
  

We also integrate noise assessments with our wider Acoustics Services giving you complete environmental and safety compliance under one roof.

FAQs

1. Is a workplace noise assessment mandatory?

 Yes. It’s a legal requirement under UK health and safety regulations once exposure reaches 80 dB(A) or more.

2. How often should I conduct a noise assessment?

 At least every two years, or sooner if your workplace setup changes.

3. What happens if my workplace exceeds safe noise levels?

 You’ll need to take immediate action implement controls, provide hearing protection, and re-assess after improvements.

4. Can a noise assessment improve productivity?

 Absolutely. Lower noise levels improve focus, reduce stress, and enhance communication.

5. Who can carry out a compliant noise assessment?

 Only a qualified and competent acoustic consultant should perform one. The team at Gradwell Group are specialists in this area.

Conclusion

A workplace noise assessment isn’t just a legal formality it’s a vital investment in your people, your productivity, and your peace of mind. By understanding where noise risks lie, you can take smart, effective action to protect your team and your business.

At Gradwell Group, we make compliance straightforward. Our experts provide accurate measurements, tailored solutions, and full support every step of the way.

Contact us today to schedule your Workplace Noise Assessment and create a quieter, safer workplace for everyone.