HSE sets up research into noise reduction at work

An initiative to encourage ­manufacturers to make quieter machinery and businesses to use it, and so reduce noise-related ill health in the workplace, has been launched by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE).

The ‘Buy Quiet’ campaign is designed to highlight the 170,000 people in the UK who suffer deafness, tinnitus or other ear conditions as a result of exposure to excessive noise at work.

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The HSE has also said it is keen to get everyone with an interest – manufacturers, suppliers, employers, unions, insurers and consultants – together to look at what they can do to reduce the risk and work with manufacturers to see how noise reductions can be made at source.

Sarah Haynes, HM Inspector of Health and Safety (Noise & Vibration), said: “Noise-related ill health can have a devastating impact on workers and their families, and Buy Quiet is about exploring ideas and sharing information about what can be done to reduce the risks.”