I'm in the process of presenting results of noise surveys in a factory, production area 300sq.m. Currently the only control they have in a noisy production department is for everyone to wear ear protection, even those not using noisy tools. Management do understand that this is not acceptable, are taking all my guidance on board and hearing tests were recently conducted on all staff. HSE daily calculator '100 points' are regularly exceeded in 2 - 4 hours because of frequent 1 minute durations of 90-100dB. Engineers accept that an engineering solution is required - they must reduce noise, enclose it or relocate the tools/machines/processes. To put some urgency into the matter, I want to advise the management on the likelihood of enforcement if an inspector visited the site: 1. If the inspector requested to see the noise survey results, am I correct to say that, initially, an Improvement Order would be issued? 2. What would the order require? Reduction in noise so that non-tool-operators did not have to wear ear protection? 3. How long would be given to satisfy the order? weeks? 4. If the Improvement Order was not satisfied in time, would a Prohibition Order be issued? JohnW

Thanks, that was the thoughts that I had. An engineering solution to the problem will take time - like they have 'thinking about' solutions for a couple of months now......

Agree with the comments above and as they imply - I would focus on the facts of what COULD happen rather than the LIKLIHOOD of it actually happening. Individuals and Companies experiences with the HSE and or Inspectors will differ greatly by Region/History/perceived risk etc etc etc etc.... I could tell you of an experience where noise was not a hot topic where as someone else may have been dragged over hot coals about it - that's neither here nor there in response to your question but you could get a lot of answers going down that road - stick to what could potentially happen rather than 2nd guess it.