ESL can undertake formal noise survey and/or assessments where employees are likely to be exposed to levels above 80 dB(A). Where possible recommendations for noise abatement can be given.


Purpose of Survey:

The distinction between a noise survey and a noise assessment must be established at the outset. The former is intended only to broadly identify areas wherein a significant problem with noise exists, whilst the latter is more detailed, identifying very specific noise sources and the necessary requirements for controlling noise. 

The basis of this survey is the requirement established in the Control of Noise at Work Regulations. The action levels are as follows: 

      1st Action Level of 80 dB(A) LEX,8h (formerly LEP,d) and/or 135 dB 

Where these levels are exceeded (without taking any hearing protection into account) employers are required to: 

Note that any action taken under the 2nd action level to reduce exposure  would need to be through engineering control measures and would not simply be an attempt to increase the efficacy of PPE or ear defenders

For Maximum Exposure Limit Value, employees must not receive a noise dose in excess of 87 dB(A) in any working period/s within a 24 hr period.

For Weekly Noise Exposure Level, where the noise exposure of an employee varies from day to day, a weekly average based on five 8 hour measurements can be used to assess the risk to hearing against the Action Levels and the Maximum Exposure Limit Value.