The Control of Noise at Work Regulations which came into effect in February 2006 replacing the previous Noise at Work Regulations have been developed in order to comply with the European Union Physical Agents (Noise) Directive (2003/10/EC) which aims to protect workers from risks to their health arising from exposure to noise. The document The Control of Noise at Work 2005 can be read at www.opsi.gov.uk/si/si2005/20051643.htm. There has been a transitional period for music and entertainment sectors which is now coming to an end and it is expected that these premises will be compliant by 6th April 2008.

The Regulations give several "action levels", which mean that if noise reaches a certain level, an employer must take action.

The first action level is that of daily average workplace noise, 80 dB. If noise reaches this level, employers must educate their workers as to the effect of noise and what can be done to protect them. They must also provide and maintain hearing protection for all the employees affected by the noise level. The 2005 regulations also state that employers must try to minimise the level of noise in the environment before bringing in hearing protection measures. This can be achieved through various methods, such as fitting noise absorbing panels to reduce sound reflection or modifying equipment to make it quieter.

The second action level is that of average workplace noise, 85 dB or a peak of 137 dB. The regulations state that employers must enforce the use of hearing protection if workplace noise exceeds this level. Hearing protection zones, where workers are obliged to wear ear protection, must also be clearly marked at this level of noise.

Average levels must never exceed 87dB nor peak at 140dB. This is known as the peak action level.

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