RNID: For deaf and hard of hearing people.

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) estimate that one million UK workers are exposed to noise levels that might damage their hearing. According to the TUC over 170,000 UK workers already suffer deafness, tinnitus or other ear conditions.

The hearing of all UK employees is protected by the Control of Noise at Work Regulations 2005. We are campaigning to make sure that the regulations are properly implemented and enforced. For our campaign on Noise at Work in the music and entertainment industry, see the Don't Lose the Music Website (external link, opens new browser window).

What the law says

Since 1989 UK employers have had to take steps to protect their employees' hearing. In April 2006, the Control of Noise at Work Regulations 2005 came into force in the UK. The regulations require employers who have staff working in noisy environments to:

  • undertake regular noise assessments
  • provide employees with information and training about how to protect their hearing
  • make hearing protection available, and ensure those most at risk actually wear hearing protection
  • give regular hearing checks to those most at risk.

The music and entertainment industry

The music and entertainment industry were given an extra two years to prepare for the regulations, and from April 2008 they became bound by the same regulations that control every other industry.

In the music and entertainment industry (which includes all workplaces where live music is played or where recorded music is played in a bar, pub, nightclub or restaurant) workers are regularly subjected to noise so loud they are at risk of permanent hearing damage.

Simple measures can be taken to protect the hearing of staff while maintaining the lively and exciting environment offered by the industry.

Further information for employers

The Health and Safety Executive gives advice and information on the health risks from exposure to noise, legislation and the management of the risks. Information is available from the Health and Safety Executive's website (external link, opens new browser window) including Sound Advice (external link, opens new browser window) which specifically addresses issues in the music and entertainment industry.

Further information for employees

If you are worried about your hearing, you can: