This week is European Safety Week! This year’s focus is on raising awareness of various safety issues in the workplace, and today, we are starting off with one of the most overlooked hazards – Workplace Noise
Why is Workplace Noise a Hazard?
Prolonged exposure to high levels of noise can lead to serious health problems. One of the most common consequences is noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL), a permanent condition that can affect workers across a range of industries, from manufacturing and construction to even office environments with constant noise sources like HVAC systems.
But hearing loss is not the only concern. Noise can also lead to:
- Increased stress levels: Constant loud noise can cause physical and mental strain, affecting overall well-being and concentration.
- Decreased productivity: A noisy environment often leads to communication difficulties, making collaboration harder and increasing the likelihood of mistakes.
- Heightened risk of accidents: When workers struggle to hear warnings, alarms, or communication from colleagues, the chance of workplace accidents rises significantly.
Warning Signs of Noise-Induced Hearing Loss
- Sounds become muffled and you have hard time hearing & understanding conversations.
- You can hear high-pitched sounds such as birds chirping or a child speaking in a high-pitched voice.
- Others say you are speaking loud and even shout.
- You can’t hear consonants such as “s”, “f” and “h”.
How Much Noise is Too Much?
Noise levels are measured in decibels (dB), and as a reference:
- A normal conversation occurs at about 60-70 dB.
- Sounds over 85 dB (e.g., heavy machinery or loud music) can start to cause damage after prolonged exposure.
European regulations, such as the Noise at Work Regulations, set limits to help control noise exposure in the workplace. Employers must take proactive steps to ensure noise levels are kept within safe limits or provide adequate hearing protection when this isn’t possible.
The Importance of a Quiet Workplace
Protecting workers from the dangers of excessive noise not only safeguards their hearing but also contributes to an overall healthier and more productive work environment. With lower stress levels and better communication, teams can focus better, collaborate more effectively, and reduce the risk of errors or accidents.
At Hanley Calibration, we are committed to ensuring that our employees work in a safe environment, and part of that commitment involves tackling noise hazards. We believe in the importance of proactive safety measures to safeguard the health and well-being of our workforce.
Stay tuned for more insights throughout European Safety Week as we continue to explore other critical workplace safety issues.
