Control of Noise At Work Regulations in force
The Control of Noise at Work Regulations 2005 came into force on April 6th 2006, but the entertainment industry was granted a 2 year extension until further guidance was developed.
That guidance is now available at www.soundadvice.info.
Any entertainment involving amplified music is likely to put employees above the noise levels at which organisers will need to take action.
Some of the actions that may be needed include lowering noise levels, signing hearing protection zones, providing and enforcing the use of hearing protection, and providing hearing checks for employees. What is needed in each case will depend on a risk assessment that organisers will need to carry out.
The regulations apply to any work place, which includes almost every event. Even a private party in a marquee may be included, if for instance there are catering staff working there.
All Event Organisers need to familiarise themselves (if they havent already) with the regulations, and the best place to start is the Sound Advice website.
