This assessment is more than just taking measurements of the noise, it must include what is required to ensure that employees are not exposed to excessive levels of noise, see SHE Code 6 'Risk Management', and should include:
- Where there is a risk from noise and who may be affected
- A reliable estimate of employees' exposure levels and a comparison with exposure action values and limit values.
- What is required to comply with the law, either noise control measures or hearing protection
- Identify anyone particularly at risk and who may need health surveillance.
Any estimate of employees' exposure must be representative of the work they do or are likely to do and must be based on reliable information, this may be from:
- Measurements in the workplace – Noise Assessment
- Data from equipment suppliers
- Information from similar workplaces
The findings of the Risk Assessment must be recorded and should include a prioritised action plan. This action plan must identify anything necessary to comply with the law and set out all that is reasonably practicable to control the noise risks including:
- What has already been done
- What is required to be done
- A realistic timetable for the work
- Who is responsible for ensuring the work is carried out satisfactorily
- An appropriate timescale for review of the assessment
Further information can be found in the HSE guidance document INDG362, "Noise at work:
Guidance for employers on the Control of Noise at Work Regulations 2005"
