Noise Awareness
Course Overview
This course will show you how dangerous noise can be in the workplace, and the main safety issues you should be aware of. It will take you through some of the simple science, the main laws that apply and introduce you to noise level limits. It also covers some of the specific health risks and how to avoid them by producing risk assessments, action plans and through the provision of appropriate Personal Protective Equipment.
Course Content
Noise awareness e-learning is built around the legal framework of the Control of Noise at Work Regulations 2005, which set three key thresholds: a lower exposure action value of 80 dB(A), at which employers must provide information and training; an upper exposure action value of 85 dB(A), at which employers must carry out a risk assessment and provide hearing protection; and an exposure limit value of 87 dB(A), which must not be exceeded, taking hearing protection into account.
Occupational noise training covers how these decibel thresholds apply in real workplace situations, since noise exposure is measured as a daily or weekly average rather than a single loud moment, which can catch people out if they only consider peak noise.
Hearing protection training online covers the range of protection available, including ear plugs and ear defenders, and how to select the right type and fit for a given noise level and task, since poorly fitted protection can leave workers with a false sense of being protected.
Where noise exposure regularly exceeds the upper action value of 85 dB(A), employers must provide health surveillance, including hearing checks, so that early signs of hearing damage are identified before they become permanent.
The course covers how the hierarchy of controls should be applied to noise risk assessments and action plans, starting with eliminating or reducing noise at source before relying on hearing protection as a last resort.
The course covers where to find further guidance beyond the course itself, for anyone needing more detail on a specific noise control situation, since control of noise regulations training benefits from ongoing reference material as workplaces and equipment change.
Anyone working in a noisy environment, including construction, manufacturing and industrial settings, plus supervisors responsible for noise risk assessments.
Course Duration
55 mins
Course Certification
Approved by IIRSM, CPD & IOSH
