Noise regulations


The Musicians’ Union has issued guidance on the noise regulations and warned employers to review their health and safety procedures.


This follows a case in which a musician won a personal injury claim against the Royal Opera House over acoustic shock. Acoustic shock is a short-term, high-intensity exposure to damaging noise levels. 


The union has written to major employers, engagers and contractors of musicians — as well as trade bodies including the Association of British Orchestras and UK Theatre — to remind them of their responsibilities under the Control of Noise at Work Regulations 2005.


The guidance summarises employers’ duties under the regulations and outlines best practice on most effectively reducing exposure to noise. It reminds employers that hearing protection “is a last resort”.


www.musiciansunion.org.uk/Home/News/2018/Sep/Noise-Regulations-and-You