Campaign launch: Protect workers from noise and vibration-related ill health
Assess. Control. Protect. New campaign guidance to help employers prevent hearing loss, tinnitus and HAVS.
Thousands of workers develop preventable health conditions every year because of exposure to excessive noise and vibration at work. Around 15,000 workers experience hearing problems caused or made worse by work each year, while an estimated one in five workers is exposed to harmful levels of workplace noise. Around 400 cases of hand-arm vibration syndrome (HAVS) are also reported annually.
The consequences can be permanent and life-changing. Yet many workers do not realise damage is being done until symptoms appear, by which time some effects may be irreversible.
This week, HSE launched its new noise and vibration campaign, highlighting the steps employers can take to protect workers from preventable ill health.
Don’t wait until symptoms appear
Noise and vibration are common workplace hazards across a wide range of industries, including construction, manufacturing, agriculture, utilities and waste management.
Long-term exposure to excessive workplace noise can cause permanent hearing loss and tinnitus, while exposure to hand-arm vibration from tools and machinery can lead to HAVS and carpal tunnel syndrome. Symptoms can include numbness, tingling, pain and reduced grip strength, affecting a person’s ability to work and carry out everyday tasks.
The good news is that these conditions are preventable when risks are properly identified and managed.
Three steps to protect workers
The campaign encourages employers to take three simple steps:
Assess
Identify who may be exposed to noise and vibration, understand the risks and carry out suitable risk assessments.
Control
Reduce exposure at source by selecting quieter or lower-vibration equipment, maintaining tools and machinery, and adopting safer ways of working.
Protect
Where risks remain, provide suitable hearing protection, arrange health surveillance where required, and ensure workers have the information, instruction and training they need.
Take action today
Employers have a legal duty to assess and control noise and vibration risks, but taking action is about more than compliance. It’s about preventing life-changing ill health and protecting workers for the long term.
Visit the new Noise and Vibration campaign page for practical guidance, tools and resources to help you assess risks, introduce effective controls and protect your workforce.
Helpful links and resources
Taking action now could prevent a lifetime of hearing loss, tinnitus or vibration-related ill health.