Risk assessment - noise

If your workplace or activities are noisy, you must undertake a risk assessment. Fortunately, you can begin this process without the need for complicated noise measurements by using our assessment template.

Why use it?

High levels of noise can cause long-term hearing damage and immediate safety issues. The Control of Noise at Work Regulations 2005 state that employers must conduct a risk assessment to: (1) identify if there is a risk and, if so, who is affected; (2) estimate exposure to noise; and (3) identify what action needs to be taken to prevent harm.

Our Risk Assessment - Noise is designed to help you do this.

How to use the form

The first two pages of the document set out the significant hazards created by high levels of noise and the risk control measures which you must implement. On page three you should then write down the locations where noise exposure occurs, which employees are affected and details of each noise source. The table helps you to set out the noise levels and pattern of noise exposure to give a rough idea of whether the level of exposure is likely to exceed the “action values” defined in the regulations.

The columns are pre-filled with the exception of the risk ratings which you’ll need to complete yourself.

If you believe that the level of noise is likely to exceed an average of 80 d(BA) or a peak value of 135 dB(A), you’re advised to have a detailed noise assessment undertaken by a specialist assessor.