reg 7 Elimination or control of exposure to noise in the workplace
(1) The employer shall ensure that the risks arising from exposure to noise which are identified by the risk assessment are either— (a) eliminated at their source; or (b) reduced to a level which is as low as is reasonably practicable. (2) If the risk assessment shows that the upper exposure action values are exceeded, the employer shall establish and implement a programme of technical or organisational measures (or both) which is appropriate to that activity to reduce the exposure of workers to noise.. (3) Actions taken by an employer to comply with paragraphs (1) and (2) shall be based on the principles in regulation 5 of the General Duties Regulations; such actions shall take into consideration— (a) other working methods that reduce exposure to noise; (b) choice of appropriate work equipment emitting the least possible noise, taking account of the work to be done; (c) the design and layout of workplaces and workstations; (d) suitable and sufficient information and training for workers, such that work equipment may be used correctly, in order to reduce their exposure to noise to as low as is reasonably practicable; (e) reduction of noise by technical means such as; (i) reducing airborne noise by use of methods such as shields, enclosures or sound-absorbent coverings; and (ii) reducing structure-borne noise by damping or isolation; (f) appropriate maintenance programmes for work equipment, the workplace and workplace systems; and (g) organisation of work schedules so as to limit the duration and intensity of exposure to noise and provide adequate rest periods. (4) The employer shall ensure that workers are not exposed to noise exceeding the exposure limit values specified in regulation 5(3). (5) Following implementation of the organisational and technical measures taken in accordance with paragraph (2) if exposures above the exposure limit value are detected, the employer shall— (a) take such action as is necessary to reduce exposure to noise below the exposure limit value; (b) identify the reasons why the limit has been exceeded; and (c) amend the measures taken in accordance with paragraph (2) to ensure that the limit is not exceeded again. (6) Noise in accommodation and rest spaces shall be reduced to a level compatible with their purpose and use. (7) The employer shall adapt measures which are taken in accordance with this regulation to workers who are particularly sensitive to noise. (8) The employers shall consult the workers concerned or their representatives on the measures to be taken to comply with this regulation.