Control of Noise at Work Regulations 2005

The Control of Noise at Work Regulations 2005 were introduced to protect workers from excessive noise that can lead to hearing damage or permanent hearing loss. Employers are required to assess the noise levels in a workplace and take steps to reduce exposure and provide hearing protection where necessary. This regulation applies to all industries but will be more prominent in construction sites, factories, airports, and music and entertainment venues.


What are the Employer’s Responsibilities?

  • Assess noise risk- Employers must carry out a noise risk assessment if workers are likely to be exposed to noise levels at or above 80 dB or peak noise at or above 135dB.
  • Provide hearing protection – Hearing protection must be provided if nosie exceeds the upper exposure action value of 85 dB or 137 dB. These can be ear defenders, earplugs, or custom-moulded plugs.
  • Implement noise control measures – Employers should prioritise engineering controls and make other changes to help reduce the levels of noise they are exposed to. This can include using quieter equipment, installing acoustic barriers, rotating staff to reduce individual exposure, and soundproofing areas or isolating noisy processes.
  • Mark hearing protection zones – Employers must mark areas where noise consistently exceeds 85 dB. They can designate the area a hearing protection zone by placing a signpost to ensure hearing protection is worn at all times in those areas.
  • Provide training and information – Employees must be provided with clear information given by employers regarding the risks associated with noise exposure, how to correctly use and care for hearing protection, and how significant it is to protect their hearing over the long term.

How does this law apply to my workplace?

Control of Noise at Work Regulations 2005 are especially relevant to environments where machinery, tools, or activities generate daily or peak noise levels that exceed the legal thresholds of 80–85 dB or 135–137 dB.

For those who work in construction sites, common noise sources such as drills, jackhammers, and grinders can cause high levels of noise. Those in aircraft ground operations also require hearing protection as the sound of jet engines well exceeds the sound restrictions.

Those in manufacturing & engineering are exposed to sounds from machinery, welding and conveyor systems, and compressors, and are required to protect their hearing with the provided hearing protection from their employer.

Even if you work in lower but consistent noise settings such as data centers, then hearing protection is also required. Exposure to low levels of noise over a consistent period can still be damaging to your ears.


What are the Employees’ Responsibilities?

Employees also have legal duties when it comes to regulations for the protection of hearing in the workplace.

They must:

  • Wear hearing protection when required and follow training on proper fit and maintenance of equipment.
  • Report issues they could have with their hearing protection
  • Store and clean ear defenders or plugs properly and never modify or misuse the hearing protection.
To protect workers from long-term hearing damage caused by excessive workplace noise. The regulations set legal limits on daily and peak noise exposure and require employers to assess risks, reduce noise levels, and provide hearing protection where necessary
At 80 decibels (dB) – Employers must give workers information, training, and access to hearing protection. At 85 decibels (dB) – Employers must make sure hearing protection is worn and set up a proper hearing protection programme. At 137 decibels (dB) (peak noise) – Employers must take steps to protect workers from sudden loud noises.
Yes, in areas marked as Hearing Protection Zones or when noise levels exceed 85 dB, employees must wear the hearing protection provided. Failure to do so may breach both the law and site policy.
Yes. Employers must provide training and instruction so employees understand: How to use and fit their protection properly, Why it's important to wear it consistently, The long-term effects of exposure to loud noise, How to care for and report issues with PPE.
Employers must provide proper hearing protection, such as earplugs or ear defenders, that are safe, suitable for the job, and approved for use in the UK.