Noise is often defined as unwanted sound. In the context of work, it can be harmful to the human ear and also the physiology of the body. As an employer you have a legal duty to reduce the risk of damage to your employees hearing. 

Loud noise at work can cause hearing damage. Noise (unwanted sound) is measured in decibels. Action levels and limit values have been set for noise exposure.   Noise exposure can be harmful to the human ear and also to the physiology of the body.  Noise at work can interfere with communication.  Hearing damage is often gradual so it may be some time before a person realises that their hearing is damaged.  Employers are required to assess the risk of noise and design appropriate controls to protect employees.

The Control of Noise at Work Regulations 2005 (the Noise Regulations) came into force for all industry sectors in Great Britain on 6 April 2006 (except for the music and entertainment sectors where they came into force on 6 April 2008). This recognised that music is unusual as it is noise deliberately created for enjoyment and therefore practical guidelines are necessary to help workers, employers and freelancers protect their hearing and safeguard their careers.