Noise at Work: Protecting Your Hearing in Industrial Environments

Noise-induced hearing loss is permanent and irreversible. In warehouses, factories, and on construction sites, exposure to loud machinery, vehicles, and processes can gradually destroy your hearing without you noticing until it is too late.

How Loud Is Too Loud?

Noise is measured in decibels (dB). To give you context:

• Normal conversation — 60-65 dB
• Busy road — 75-85 dB
• Forklift truck — 85-90 dB
• Angle grinder — 95-105 dB
• Pneumatic drill — 100-110 dB
• Loud music through headphones — 100-110 dB

A simple rule of thumb: if you need to raise your voice to be heard by someone 2 metres away, the noise level is probably above 85 dB and hearing protection should be worn.

Legal Requirements

The Control of Noise at Work Regulations 2005 set two key action levels:

• Lower exposure action level (80 dB) — your employer must assess the risk, make hearing protection available, and provide information and training
• Upper exposure action level (85 dB) — your employer must reduce noise exposure, provide hearing protection and ensure it is worn, designate hearing protection zones, and carry out health surveillance

The absolute exposure limit is 87 dB — this must never be exceeded (measured at the ear, taking into account any hearing protection worn).

Types of Hearing Protection

• Disposable foam earplugs — cheap, effective, and widely available. Must be inserted correctly (rolled, inserted, and allowed to expand) to work properly
• Reusable earplugs — flanged plugs that can be washed and reused. Often more comfortable for all-day wear
• Ear defenders (muffs) — over-ear protection that is easy to put on and take off. Good for intermittent noise exposure
• Custom-moulded earplugs — made to fit your ear precisely. The most comfortable for extended wear. Some employers provide these

Signs of Hearing Damage

Watch for these warning signs:

• Ringing or buzzing in your ears (tinnitus) — especially after a shift
• Sounds seeming muffled or distant
• Difficulty hearing conversations, especially in background noise
• Needing to turn up the TV or music volume
• Asking people to repeat themselves frequently

If you notice any of these, see your GP and inform your employer. Early detection can prevent further damage.

Your Responsibilities

• Wear hearing protection in designated zones — it is not optional
• Wear protection correctly — improperly fitted earplugs provide little protection
• Report defective or uncomfortable PPE — your employer must provide alternatives that fit properly
• Attend hearing surveillance appointments if offered
• Do not remove protection even briefly in noisy areas — even short unprotected exposures cause cumulative damage

Your hearing is irreplaceable. TRS Recruit ensures all temporary workers receive appropriate hearing protection for their assignments. If you are not provided with adequate protection on site, contact us immediately.