A recent inspection campaign by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has uncovered significant shortcomings in the way hearing protection is managed in noisy workplaces, raising concerns about workers’ exposure to harmful noise levels.

The inspections found that around one in four workplaces had noise levels high enough to require mandatory hearing protection. Placing the focus of responsibility on the employer ensuring adequate provision and management of protective equipment.

The HSE found more than 75% of employees working in high-noise environments lacked awareness regarding the storage of hearing protection, checking and identify signs of damage, or reporting faults to the employer. In addition, 63% of employees hadn’t received information on the importance of wearing hearing protection continuously while exposed to hazardous noise.

The lack of essential training was also evident, 80% of employees had received no instruction on the proper wearing techniques, including how to limit the interference from hats and hoods, for example, keeping hair clear from earmuffs.

Perhaps most concerning, 95% of employers had not checked whether workers wearing hearing protection could still detect essential warning signals such as fire alarms and vehicle reversing alerts.

To support employers in assess hearing equipment the HSE is promoting its

CUFF checking system

• Condition – equipment integrity
• Use – proper deployment when needed
• Fit the ear – correct wearing
• Fit for purpose – appropriate specification

Are you concerned about noise levels at your workplace? Milne Safety offers professional on-site noise assessments to help employers understand their legal obligations and protect employees from the risk of noise-induced hearing loss. Our assessments identify hazardous noise exposure, evaluate existing control measures, and provide clear, practical advice to ensure your workplace remains safe, compliant, and productive.

Health surveillance and audiometric testing play a vital role in protecting workers who are regularly exposed to high levels of noise. Regular hearing tests can help identify early signs of noise-induced hearing loss, allowing employers to take action before permanent damage occurs. Milne Safety offers on-site audiometric testing using our fully equipped audiometric van, providing a convenient and efficient way to test your employees’ hearing.