It will probably be a surprise for many employees to learn that noise can lead to some serious health problems. Noise is something that many of us automatically tune out but if noise levels are too high it can seriously impede how we function. Loud noise frequencies can impair our ability to take in important information when it is communicated to us and can also lead to health issues. Health and safety training however can teach staff how to prevent loss of hearing and how to reduce noise levels to reduce the stress it causes to our bodies.
Over long periods of time our bodies can react to loud noise by developing high blood pressure, hypertension, ulcers and other significant health issues. Health and safety regulations stipulate that employees should wear ear muffs, ear plugs and other forms of ear protection in loud working environments. Ear protectors can help to neutralise noise around us so that we can operate safely and carry out our day-to-day tasks. Health and safety training can teach staff the importance of using such protective equipment and how they should be used. Using ear protection employees can continue to work productively without having to compromise their health.
As an employer you have a responsibility to your employees and must ensure that they have the relevant health and safety training and equipment available to them. A one-off training day is not enough to instil a culture of responsible work practices so use different method to reinforce the message.
Health and safety posters should be displayed in areas where there are high decibel levels. This is to remind employees to wear ear protection and also outline how to use them correctly. It is also a good practice to offer hearing tests on a regular basis to staff that are exposed to high decibels of noise.
At Northgate Arinso we offer a range of health and safety training to ensure your staff are fully educated and working to safe practices.