In industrial workplaces across the UK, one of the most significant and yet often overlooked occupational hazards is noise pollution. Repeated exposure to high noise levels can pose worrying concerns for long-term hearing health even if immediate damage isn’t apparent, potentially causing tinnitus or loss of hearing, not to mention stress, anxiety, and loss of concentration in the short run.
To most workers, noise pollution and elevated levels might not seem like a detrimental or disruptive workplace obstruction. However, the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) recently reported estimates of over 2 million people in Great Britain being exposed to ‘unacceptable’ levels of noise when working. Furthermore, in the same report, the HSE suggests that noise-induced hearing loss is the second most common employers’ liability insurance claim reason concerning occupational health.
With that in mind, it’s prudent to address the issue of noise pollution in the UK, looking at it not just from a regulatory compliance perspective but also from one of preserving and prioritising employee safety and well-being.
The Reality of Industrial Noise Levels
Industrial noise encompasses excessive sound generated by equipment, machinery and systems often found in manufacturing facilities, construction sites and similar settings. The noise can range from a continuous ‘hum’ emitted by a large ventilation system and the loud ‘buzz’ of powerful tools or machines, to an intermittent ‘clanging’ of steelworks and fabrication processes, and even the high-pitched ‘whine’ of commercial automated garage doors, hinges and levers to name just a few.
These facilities can emit a host of different noises that can feel intrusive, loud, and obstructive. Workers in inherently loud environments will often have to either raise their voices to have a normal conversation when roughly 2 metres apart, wear protective equipment when near huge industrial machines or pipework, or both.
The UK’s Control of Noise at Work Regulations 2005 establishes clear legal thresholds:
- Lower exposure action values: daily or weekly exposure of 80 dB
- Upper exposure action values: daily or weekly exposure of 85 dB or more
At 85 dB – which roughly equates to the noise levels found on a busy street – employers must take action to protect workers’ hearing. Many industrial processes like steel fabrication, woodwork, heavy goods manufacturing, distribution, warehouse operations and others often exceed 90-100 dB.
Health Risks of Repeated Loud Noise Exposure
The consequences of prolonged exposure to excessive noise are far greater than minor discomfort.
Here is a list of the potential health concerns that could impact workers who aren’t given proper noise protection:
- Noise-Induced Hearing Loss (NIHL): Often gradual and irreversible, NIHL can significantly impair short- and long-term quality of life.
- Tinnitus: Persistent ringing in the ears which can dramatically affect concentration and sleep quality.
- Cardiovascular issues: Research links chronic noise exposure to increased blood pressure and cardiovascular disease risk.
- Elevated stress levels: Continuous noise exposure triggers stress responses, even when workers have seemingly “adapted” to the noise.
- Reduced concentration: Noise interferes with cognitive functions, increasing the risk of errors, accidents, and even memory loss.
- Communication issues: Critical safety instructions or warning signals may be missed in noisy environments.
- Fatigue: Workers in noisy environments often report increased fatigue, requiring more recovery time.
How to Assess Noise Risks in the Workplace
Effective noise management begins with a thorough and conclusive assessment involving the following key steps:
- Noise mapping: Identify the noisiest areas where levels are higher and potentially more disruptive.
- Exposure: Consider both noise intensity and average exposure time for workers, whether working directly in the environment or passing through it repeatedly.
- Worker mobility: Track how employees move through various noisy zones.
- Type of noise: Assess whether noise is continuous, intermittent, or impulsive, as this will determine the remediation actions.
Steps to Create a Quieter Industrial Workplace
While it might seem difficult to implement widespread workplace controls to regulate noise levels stemming from machines that can’t – on the surface – be made any quieter, workplace health and safety managers can’t overlook worker well-being.
Adjust Workplace Layout, Equipment and Controls
The most effective approach to noise reduction follows the hierarchy of controls, with the aim being to eliminate or substitute loud noises where possible.
- If manageable, opt for quieter machines or equipment. Ensure they are regularly serviced and maintained, as equipment in poor condition can generate more noise through unexpected vibration or friction.
- Contain noise by enclosing particularly disruptive or distracting equipment and machines, for example, through soundproof doors, windows and stud walls with sound-resistant plasterboard.
- Install anti-vibration pads and mounts to minimise noise transmission through buildings.
- Place acoustic felt panels, barriers and sound-absorbing materials to prevent the travel of noise as much as possible.
- Rethink and optimise workflows to reduce workers’ continued and repeated exposure to noise levels, particularly without sufficient ear protection.
Manage Repeated, Continuous Exposure
Consider the following to ensure workers’ hearing isn’t being repeatedly and irreparably damaged:
- Limit exposure time by rotating workers between quieter and noisier areas.
- Schedule shifts where workers will only be exposed to noisy environments.
- Designate areas where workers can take breaks away from noise.
- Ensure workers understand noise risks and the proper use of control measures with the help of quality HSE-compliant training programmes.
- Clearly mark high-noise areas requiring hearing protection with adequate and visible signage.
Invest in Quality Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Personal hearing protection remains a must-have in many industrial environments. Invest in these products as a priority:
- Earplugs: Suitable for moderate noise levels and compatible with other PPE.
- Earmuffs: Provide greater protection for higher noise levels.
- Custom moulded ear protection: Offers improved comfort for long-term wear.
- Noise-cancelling technology: Advanced options for environments with specific noise profiles.
Benefits of Proper Noise Control
Workplaces that invest in proper noise control will witness a wealth of benefits that go beyond HSE compliance. They will also see:
- Reduced absenteeism and sick days
- More productive and healthier work environments
- Clearer lines of communication
- Improved concentration and decision-making among workers
- Better overall working conditions
- Improved employee retention and satisfaction
- Reduced risks of future liability insurance claims or civil action
Next Steps
It’s abundantly clear that noise pollution in industrial environments poses significant risks to worker health, which, collectively, affects overall business productivity and performance. Implementing adequate and compliant noise control measures will create a much safer, healthier and more efficient workforce, giving organizations the best possible chance to instigate operations that are conducive to business success.
