Noise induced hearing loss (NIHL) is a huge problem within the UK
Employers have a duty to protect the health of employees and other that may be affected. A noise risk assessment must be completed to comply with the Control of Noise at Work Regulations 2005 Regulation 5.
The risk of noise needs to be assessed once two main factors have been determined:
- The noise level (measured typically in dB(A) and;
- The duration of exposure
Ask yourself, do you know how long exactly you use your tools that generate noise? And do you know the exact noise level of the tool or process? If the answer is no then let Velocity Safety help.
Examples of industries where we have carried out workplace noise measurement and assessments:
- Construction
- Aviation
- Civil Engineering
- Manufacturing
- Logistics
- Maritime
- Emergency Services
- Utilities
- Chemical and Petrochemical.
Workplace noise assessments and measurement: What we do
Noise must be measured in accordance with the Control of Noise at Work Regulations 2005.
Lots of consultants and health and safety professionals start off taking measurements with the wrong equipment or uncalibrated equipment. To comply with the regulations a minimum of a class 2 sound meter must be used. It should be calibrated on a minimum of a bi-annual basis (annually is highly recommended) and onsite calibration checks before and after measurements have been taken must be performed using a class 2 acoustic calibrator.
At Velocity Safety we only use the best instruments and that’s why we use a Class 1 sound meter with 1:3 Octave bands so when we take your measurements we can provide you with as much data as possible. Collecting octave band data enables us to pin point which frequencies of noise are an issue and we can recommend specific engineering controls as we have the octave band data. This is crucial when specifying sound absorbing materials. It is also beneficial when specifying hearing protection.
Our Workplace Noise Assessment Process – HSE-Aligned and Evidence-Driven
Whether you run a workshop, warehouse, or manufacturing facility, our process identifies risk and proves your compliance under the Control of Noise at Work Regulations 2005.
1. Initial Consultation & Risk Review
We discuss your operations, known noisy areas, and employee concerns. This helps us plan the assessment and identify likely high-risk zones.
2. Site Walkthrough
Using calibrated sound level meters and dosimeters, we log real-time noise levels across your workplace – including static machinery, mobile equipment, and process areas.
3. Exposure Calculations (LEP,d / LCPeak)
We calculate daily personal exposure for employees and compare results to legal thresholds (80dB(A), 85dB(A), 137dB(C) etc).
4. Identification of Required Actions
We highlight any mandatory requirements, such as hearing protection zones, health surveillance needs, or engineering controls.
5. Detailed Report & Compliance Summary
You’ll receive a clear, audit-ready report including all readings, exposure data, HSE guidance references, and practical recommendations.
Got a noise issue? We’ll help you mitigate it with PPE advice, signage, or practical control strategies.
Why choose Velocity Safety Ltd
Why choose Velocity Safety Ltd for Noise at Work Measurement and Assessment requirements
- Our consultants have received specific training in the measurement and assessment of noise at work.
- Over 12 years experience in the health and safety industry.
- Fully demonstrate compliance with the Control of Noise at Work regulations 2005.
- Fully Insured.
- We use fully calibrated class 1 sound meters calibrated every 12 months.
- We also perform on site calibration checks before and after measurements are taken.
- We collect noise measurements which include octave bands.
- We have intrinsically safe dose badges available
- Our reports fully comply with the Control of Noise at Work Regulations
What Others Say About Us…
Clients in manufacturing, logistics and education say our noise surveys helped them understand exposure risks – and take action.
“After many issues with the inspectors from our insurer I contacted Ross to quote. He saved us just over £3000 in the first year. He also does weekends for us to reduce downtime.”
Joe, Civils Company Midlands
“After spending £20k purchasing the wrong powered air units for our factory on our previous PPE supplier/H&S advisors recommendations, Ross came in and told us what we needed, why we needed it and what cost savings could be had over the life of the equipment. I just wish we found him sooner.”
David, Engineering Company North West
“Great Service, Great guy nothing is too much trouble.”
John, Groundworks Company North West
Official Moldex distributor – Trusted PPE supplied & serviced by Velocity Safety
Other Services Available:
- Workplace noise measurements
- Workplace noise assessments
- Workplace noise surveys
- Hearing Protection Audits
- Workplace noise consultancy including engineering control solutions.
FAQs – Workplace Noise Assessment
Noise-induced hearing loss is irreversible – and preventable. Here’s what businesses often ask us about workplace noise compliance:
Is a noise assessment a legal requirement?
Yes. If your workplace is likely to exceed the lower exposure action values (80 dB(A) daily/weekly average), you must carry out a noise risk assessment under UK law.
How do I know if we’re over the limit?
Indicators include needing to raise your voice to speak 2 metres away, staff reporting ringing ears, or equipment known to emit high decibel levels. We can confirm with testing.
What’s the difference between LEP,d and LCPeak?
LEP,d is the daily personal noise exposure level, averaged over 8 hours. LCPeak is the maximum pressure level from sudden noises – like impacts or compressed air bursts.
Do I need to test everywhere?
Not necessarily. We sample typical roles, tasks, and shift patterns to determine representative exposure across departments.
What happens if noise levels are too high?
We’ll help you implement a noise control plan – from engineering solutions to PPE zones and health surveillance requirements.
Is there any disruption during testing?
Minimal. Our monitoring runs in the background while your staff continue normal operations. We avoid interfering with productivity.
Do you provide reports suitable for HSE or insurers?
Yes. All reports follow HSE guidance (L108) and include clear evidence, charts, and legally referenced conclusions.
How often should we test workplace noise?
When risk changes – such as new equipment or layout. Annual reviews are best practice.
Can you supply hearing protection advice?
Yes. We can recommend suitable PPE based on measured frequencies and advise on signage and enforcement zones.
Do you offer workplace noise assessments near me?
Yes. Our engineers carry out noise surveys and exposure assessments across the UK – with a strong focus on North West industry. From workshops in Preston to fabrication plants in Wigan, we help businesses comply with the Control of Noise at Work Regulations. National service available for multi-site operations.
Whatever your workplace noise measurement and assessment requirements, you can be sure your in honest, reliable and safe hands.
Contact Velocity Safety today 01254 933 486 or Contact Us
Schedule a Noise Survey for Your Workplace
Protect hearing and meet Control of Noise at Work Regs. Our noise assessments identify high-risk areas, provide exposure levels, and include clear control recommendations.
01254 933 486
info@velocitysafety.co.uk
Velocity Safety
Unit 7 Whitebirk Enterprise Centre,
Lower Phillips Road
Blackburn,
Lancashire
BB1 5UD
