Purchasers may find it useful to seek confirmation of machinery noise levels when installed in their premises. Immediate benefits are often achieved by improving the standard of machine maintenance. Users should follow manufacturers' or suppliers' advice on achieving low noise levels during the installation and operation of the machine. In some cases, the employer will find it necessary to apply engineering control measures to noise sources. Lower noise exposures can be achieved by changing to quieter tooling, modifying dust extraction, changing patterns of work or providing a noise enclosure.
Ear protectors vary in the degree of protection given at different frequencies.
They should be comfortable, issued on an individual basis, kept clean, regularly checked and maintained and replaced when necessary. Ear protection should be worn before exposure to noise begins, so that the ear is allowed to function normally. Noise awareness Employers are obliged to provide employees with adequate information, instruction and training about the noise hazard and its control. Having established the risks due to noise, employers should educate managers and workers about the likely noise exposure and the risks of hearing damage. Employees should know how to minimise the risk of hearing damage by correctly using control equipment and ear protection, should be trained to carry out necessary maintenance duties and should know when to report defects.