Noise at work action values explained
Three numbers decide what you must do about workplace noise: 80, 85 and 87 dB. Here is what each means and the duties that kick in at each level.
The three values
The Control of Noise at Work Regulations 2005 (Great Britain; the Control of Noise at Work Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2006 in Northern Ireland) set three levels, measured as daily or weekly personal noise exposure:
| Value | Daily/weekly | Peak |
|---|---|---|
| Lower action value | 80 dB | 135 dB |
| Upper action value | 85 dB | 137 dB |
| Exposure limit value | 87 dB | 140 dB |
The exposure limit value accounts for any hearing protection worn; the two action values do not.
What you must do at each level
At the lower action value (80 dB): assess the risk, give workers information and training about the risks, and make hearing protection available to those who ask for it.
At the upper action value (85 dB): reduce noise exposure so far as is reasonably practicable by means other than hearing protection (engineering and organisational controls first); set up hearing-protection zones and make sure protection is provided and worn; and provide health surveillance (audiometry) for those at risk.
The exposure limit value (87 dB) must not be exceeded, taking account of hearing protection. If it is, reduce exposure below it immediately and review your controls.
Keep noise assessments and surveillance in order
Complys holds your noise risk assessments and records, and the health surveillance that noise exposure requires for those at risk.
Noise at work software →FAQs
What are the noise action values?
Under the Control of Noise at Work Regulations 2005: the lower exposure action value is a daily or weekly exposure of 80 dB (with a peak of 135 dB); the upper exposure action value is 85 dB (peak 137 dB); and the exposure limit value is 87 dB (peak 140 dB). The exposure limit value takes account of any hearing protection worn; the action values do not.
What must I do at each level?
At the lower value (80 dB): assess the risk, provide information and training, and make hearing protection available on request. At the upper value (85 dB): reduce exposure so far as reasonably practicable by means other than hearing protection, establish hearing-protection zones, ensure protection is worn, and provide health surveillance (audiometry) for those at risk. The exposure limit value (87 dB) must not be exceeded.
Which regulations apply?
In Great Britain, the Control of Noise at Work Regulations 2005; in Northern Ireland, the Control of Noise at Work Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2006.
Related: what is HAVS, when is health surveillance required, and noise at work software. General information, not legal advice.