March 2, 2025

Think about the last time you were working on an offshore platform, surrounded by the constant hum of machinery. Or standing on a busy factory floor with loud equipment all around. We get used to these noisy environments, but they can be harmful to your hearing over time.

At Flare, we care about safety – and that's not just about life-threatening situations. We know that long-term exposure to loud noise can cause permanent hearing loss, ringing in the ears (tinnitus), and trouble concentrating. That’s why hearing protection is so important. But safety isn’t just about wearing the right gear. Here are some ways to reduce noise exposure before relying on hearing protection:

Know the noise levels in your workplace. Different areas have different sound levels, so be aware of what you’re exposed to.
Speak up if you’re concerned about noise. Employers must control noise and provide hearing protection.
Turn it down when possible. Adjusting equipment settings or using quieter machinery can make a big difference.
Get regular hearing checks to catch any early signs of hearing loss.

Workplace Noise Limits: Understanding Safe Sound Levels

The Control of Noise at Work Regulations 2005 sets rules to protect workers from harmful noise. It includes two key noise levels:

80 dB (A-weighted) or 135 dB (C-weighted): Employers must offer hearing protection and training, but wearing it is optional.
85 dB (A-weighted) or 137 dB (C-weighted): Hearing protection is required, and employers must take steps to lower the noise.

But what do these numbers mean?

A-weighted (dBA): Measures how humans hear sounds, like conversations (60 dBA) or busy streets (80 dBA).

C-weighted (dBC): Captures extreme sounds, like explosions or gunshots.

The law also limits daily noise exposure to 87 dBA and peak sounds to 140 dBC, even with hearing protection. This ensures employers take action before noise reaches dangerous levels.

What is Noise-Induced Hearing Loss (NIHL)? Causes and Symptoms

Long-term exposure to loud noise can cause hearing problems, including:

Hearing loss: Difficulty hearing conversations or high-pitched sounds.
Tinnitus: Ringing or buzzing in the ears, even in silence.
Hyperacusis: When normal sounds seem painfully loud.
Noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL): Permanent damage from repeated loud noise exposure.

How Workplace Noise Affects Productivity and Mental Health

Loud workplace noise doesn’t just impact hearing. It also affects focus, productivity, and safety. Constant exposure to industrial noise forces the brain to work harder to process information, making it more difficult to concentrate, follow instructions, and communicate clearly. Over time, this can even lead to fatigue, stress, and reduced situational awareness - critical factors in hazardous environments like offshore platforms or factory floors.

High noise levels can also interfere with decision-making, increasing the risk of errors and accidents. Research shows that background noise competes for cognitive resources, making complex tasks more challenging. When your parents said they struggled to “hear themselves think” over the TV, it’s not just a figure of speech!

Beyond productivity and safety, excessive noise exposure can have serious mental health impacts. Prolonged exposure to loud environments has been linked to increased stress, anxiety, and even higher risks of depression. Continuous noise can increase stress hormones, disrupt sleep patterns, and contribute to feelings of irritability or burnout. A noisy workplace can take a real toll on our wellbeing.

While hearing protection is essential, reducing workplace noise through engineering controls, quieter equipment, and better noise management can improve both safety and efficiency. A quieter workplace isn’t just better for hearing—it’s better for mental health, overall well-being, and job performance.

Best Hearing Protection for Workplace Noise

There are a variety of hearing protection solutions on offer, tailored to different needs. Some popular options include:

Earplugs: Small, soft plugs that fit inside the ear canal. Available in foam, silicone, and custom-moulded styles.
Ear defenders (earmuffs): Cover the ears completely, blocking out high-frequency noise. Ideal for very loud environments.
Electronic ear defenders: Allow you to hear important sounds while blocking harmful noise.
Custom-moulded earplugs: Designed to fit your ears perfectly for maximum comfort and protection.

How to Choose the Right Hearing Protection for Work

When picking hearing protection, consider:

Noise level: Higher noise means stronger protection is needed.
Comfort: Protection should be comfortable for long hours of wear.
Fit: It should be snug but not too tight.
Compatibility: Ensure it works with glasses, helmets, or other safety gear.

Tips to Prevent Hearing Damage in the Workplace

Beyond wearing ear protection, follow these steps to keep your hearing safe:

Limit exposure: Spend less time in noisy areas if possible.
Take breaks: Give your ears rest periods when working in loud environments.
Maintain your gear: Keep your hearing protection clean and in good condition.
Avoid loud music: Listening to high-volume music through headphones can also damage your hearing.

Workplace Hearing Safety: A Shared Responsibility

Hearing safety isn’t just a personal responsibility - it’s a team effort. Employers must create a safe work environment, and employees must take steps to protect themselves.

Why Workplace Hearing Protection Matters

Noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) is permanent. Once your hearing is damaged, it cannot be restored.
Hearing loss affects quality of life. It can make conversations difficult, reduce enjoyment of music, and limit social interactions.
Everyone in noisy workplaces needs protection. This includes construction workers, factory staff, musicians, and tradespeople.

Flare can help you find the right hearing protection for your team. Our experts will recommend the best solutions to keep your workforce safe. Get in touch today to discover a full range of options.

By taking steps to protect your hearing today, you’re ensuring a safer and healthier future for yourself and your team.

About the Author

Dan McLean is an experienced Operations Director at Flare, bringing nearly 20 years of international expertise in the marine, oil & gas industries. Dan has led projects involving complex fire safety installations in multiple countries and rigorous certification processes. He ensures best practices and operational excellence at every stage.