A noise risk assessment works out whether the sound at work is loud enough, for long enough, to damage people's hearing, and what is being done about it. Noise-induced hearing loss creeps up without pain and does not come back, so the check has to happen before anyone notices a problem. This template starts with the action values that apply where you work, runs a quick screen, then records each noisy area or task — the source, who is there, for how long and how loud — and rates every control in turn. Fill it in here and download a PDF without an account, or speak while you walk, and the document writes itself.
Screen first, then measure
Not every workplace needs a sound level meter. A few plain questions tell you whether noise is likely to be a problem: whether people have to raise their voices to talk at a couple of meters, whether loud tools or machines run for more than half an hour a day, and whether there are bangs from hammering, presses or cartridge tools. If the answers are all no, record that and you are mostly done.
If any answer is yes, get numbers. A spot reading with a sound level meter at the worker's ear, a personal dosimeter worn for a shift, or the maker's declared noise figure for the machine can all go in the form, as long as you say which one you used. An estimate is better than nothing, but it should lead to a measurement.
Action values, not one number
Most countries set two or three thresholds rather than a single limit. Below the lower one, little is required. Between the lower and upper values, people must be told about the risk and offered hearing protection. At or above the upper value, the employer has to reduce noise by other means first, mark hearing protection zones and make protection mandatory there. A limit sits above all of that.
The numbers differ by country, and some are measured differently — an 8-hour average in one place, a daily exposure allowing for protection in another. That is why this form asks you to type the values that apply to you at the start, rather than printing one country's figures as if they applied everywhere.
Quieter beats earplugs
Hearing protection is the last line, because it depends on being the right type, fitted well and worn every minute in the noise. Before that come choices that make less noise in the first place: buying quieter machines, fixing the rattle and the loose guard, fitting silencers and damping, enclosing the loudest plant, moving it away from where people work, and giving people a quiet place to take breaks. The form asks about each one, and a control that is practical but not done shows up as a finding.
When protection is needed, the rating matters in both directions. Too little and the ear is still exposed; too much and people cannot hear alarms, vehicles or each other, so they take it off.
Hearing tests and training
Regular hearing tests catch damage early, while something can still be done about the noise. Where they are required depends on local rules and the level of exposure. Training covers why noise matters, how to fit and look after protection, and how to report a problem. The form records whether both are in place and whether the latest tests showed any change.
Common questions
What is a noise risk assessment?
A written check of where noise at work is loud enough to harm hearing, who is exposed and for how long, what controls are in place, whether they are enough, and what will change. It is reviewed when equipment, layout or working patterns change.
How do I know if I need one?
If people have to raise their voices to talk to someone a couple of meters away, if loud powered tools or machines run for more than about half an hour a day, or if there are impact noises such as hammering or nail guns, you very likely need one.
Do I need a sound level meter?
For anything above a borderline result, yes, or a dosimeter, or reliable figures from the equipment maker. Phone apps can help with a first look but are not usually accurate enough to rely on.
What is the difference between dB(A) and dB(C)?
Both are weighted sound levels. dB(A) roughly matches how the ear hears everyday sound and is used for average exposure over a day. dB(C) gives more weight to low frequencies and is used for short, sharp peak noises such as impacts and bangs.
Are earplugs enough on their own?
Only where reducing the noise at its source or keeping people away from it is not practical. Earplugs and earmuffs protect only when they are suited to the noise, fitted correctly and worn the whole time someone is exposed.