Microsoft Word - HS Manual Ireland 2018

HSP5 Noise in the Workplace  Introduction 

Employers have a legal duty to protect their employees and others  from the harmful effects of unwanted noise in the workplace.   The important factors when assessing risks from noise are the  intensity of the noise ‐ measured in decibels – dB(A), and how long  individuals are exposed to the noise – on a daily basis and over a  number of years.  These levels are expressed as a daily personal  exposure level (LEP,d)   The preferred approach is to eliminate or minimise the noise at  source.  However, if the noise cannot be adequately attenuated by  all reasonably practical means, the employer must provide personal  hearing protection in the form of ear plugs, ear muffs or the  equivalent.   In terms of eliminating or minimising noise at source, the first  consideration is at the equipment purchasing stage, when noise  levels should be an important consideration in selecting from  competing products   Legal Requirements   In regard to noise in the workplace, all the usual requirements of the  Safety, Health and Welfare Act 2005 apply, insofar as the employer is  required to safeguard the health, safety and welfare of its employees  and the employer is required to carry out suitable health and safety  risk assessments.   The additional legislation covering the impact of noise is the Safety,  Health and Welfare at Work (General Application) Regulations 2007 Chapter 1 of Part 5, which lay a responsibility on employers to

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