Part 4.1: WHS Noise Regulations

Regulatory citation: Model Work Health and Safety Regulations, Part 4.1 (Regulations 56–59)

What Are the WHS Noise Regulations?

Part 4.1 of the model Work Health and Safety Regulations requires PCBUs to manage the risk of hearing loss from noise at work. It sets an exposure standard for noise, requires PCBUs to keep exposure below that standard, and requires audiometric testing for workers who must use hearing protection to guard against noise above the standard.

Why Noise Regulations Matter

Noise-induced hearing loss is permanent and builds up gradually, so workers often don't notice the damage until it is too late. It is also closely linked to tinnitus. Because the harm is preventable, WHS law treats noise as a hazard that must be actively controlled.

The Noise Exposure Standard

The exposure standard for noise is:

• LAeq,8h of 85 dB(A): an eight-hour equivalent continuous A-weighted sound pressure level of 85 decibels
• LC,peak of 140 dB(C): a C-weighted peak sound pressure level of 140 decibels, which addresses sudden impact noise such as hammering or explosive tools

As a rule of thumb, every 3 dB increase in noise level halves the time a person can be exposed before reaching the standard.

Core Obligations

1. Keep Exposure Below the Standard (Regulation 57)

PCBUs must manage risks to hearing from noise and ensure that noise a worker is exposed to at the workplace does not exceed the exposure standard.

2. Provide Audiometric Testing (Regulation 58)

If a worker is frequently required to use personal hearing protectors to protect against noise that exceeds the exposure standard, the PCBU must provide audiometric testing within three months of the worker starting the work, and at least every two years after that. Transitional timeframes for existing workers vary by jurisdiction.

3. Duties of Designers, Manufacturers, Importers and Suppliers (Regulation 59)

These duty holders must ensure plant is designed and manufactured so its noise emission is as low as reasonably practicable, and must provide information about the plant's noise emissions.

Common Compliance Approaches

Noise Assessments

Measure noise levels and worker exposures where people have to raise their voices to be heard at about one meter, and repeat assessments when equipment or processes change.

Apply the Hierarchy of Controls

Buy quieter equipment, enclose or isolate noisy machinery, fit mufflers and dampening, and maintain plant to reduce vibration. Limit time in noisy areas through job rotation, and use hearing protection as the last line of defense.

Hearing Protection Programs

Where hearing protection is needed, select the right class for the noise level, fit-test it, train workers on correct use and mark hearing protection zones with signs.

Track Audiometric Results

Use audiometric results to identify early hearing changes and trigger a review of controls for affected work areas.

Example: Managing Noise in Practice

A metal fabrication shop measures noise near its grinding stations at levels that put workers above the exposure standard during a full shift. The business installs acoustic screens around grinding bays, replaces older grinders with quieter models, and rotates workers between grinding and assembly. Workers who still need hearing protection receive fitted earmuffs and audiometric testing within three months of starting, with repeat tests every two years.

Note: This summary is based on the model WHS laws published by Safe Work Australia. Most states and territories have adopted them with minor variations, while Victoria has its own OHS laws. Always check the legislation and codes of practice that apply in your jurisdiction.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the workplace noise limit in Australia?

Under the model WHS Regulations, the noise exposure standard is an eight-hour equivalent continuous level of 85 dB(A) and a peak level of 140 dB(C). PCBUs must ensure workers are not exposed to noise above these levels.

When is audiometric testing required?

Audiometric testing is required when a worker is frequently required to use personal hearing protection to protect against noise above the exposure standard. Testing must occur within three months of the worker starting that work and at least every two years after that.

Is hearing protection enough to comply?

Not on its own. Hearing protection is the lowest-order control. PCBUs must first eliminate or reduce noise at the source using quieter equipment, isolation and engineering controls, and use hearing protection only for the remaining risk.