Under the 2006 Noise at Work Regulations, employers must take action to control exposure to noise when certain levels are reached. These thresholds are known as action levels, and they help determine when hearing protection or other control measures are required.

The defined action levels are as follows:

• First Action Level (Lower Exposure Action Value):
  A daily or weekly personal noise exposure of 80 dB(A).
  At this level, employers must provide information and training and make hearing protection available.
   
• Second Action Level (Upper Exposure Action Value):
  A daily or weekly personal noise exposure of 85 dB(A).
  When this level is reached or exceeded, employers must take steps to reduce noise exposure and require the use of hearing protection.
   
• Peak Action Level – First Action:
  A peak sound pressure level of 135 dB(C).
  Employers must assess the need for protection against sudden loud noises.
   
• Peak Action Level – Second Action:
  A peak sound pressure level of 137 dB(C).
  At this level, immediate steps must be taken to control exposure and ensure hearing protection is used.

These action levels are critical in safeguarding workers from long-term hearing damage and maintaining a safe working environment.

Key points:

• 80 dB(A) = first action level; make hearing protection available
• 85 dB(A) = second action level; require use of hearing protection
• 135 dB(C) = first peak action level; assess for protection from sudden loud noises
• 137 dB(C) = second peak action level; enforce control measures immediately

Regulations help prevent hearing loss in noisy work environments

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