In April next year new regulations are introduced restricting the level of noise employees can be exposed to at work.

When the noise level reaches 80dB(A) hearing protection must be available and at 85dB(A) it has to be worn.

Want to know more? The Institution of Occupational Safety & Health (IOSH), in partnership with the Health, Safety, Ethical & Environmental Executive (HSE) and supported by the Royal National Institute for the Deaf (RNID), is staging a conference, called Sound Off, about it at Earls Court Conference Centre in London on 11 and 12 October.

Sound Off will feature special sessions for the construction and manufacturing industry.

For more information on health and safety for small businesses visit