







In January 2025, a Noise Assessment was carried out at a Leeds Station to look at how much noise station staff are exposed to during their day-to-day work. The focus was on station dispatch and gate operatives, especially those working along the platforms, where idling and moving trains, public announcements and general station activity contribute to noise levels.
The results showed that station dispatch operatives were regularly exposed to noise levels above the lower action value of 80 dB(A), with occasional peaks approaching or just over the upper action value of 85 dB(A). Meanwhile, gate operatives experienced lower noise levels, with exposures well below action thresholds. A couple of peak readings for dispatch staff looked unusually high, but these were likely caused by accidental knocks to the monitoring equipment.
While hearing protection zones weren't needed across the site, the report suggested offering hearing protection as an option, cross-training staff to rotate between quieter and noisier roles, and keeping up regular health checks.
With these simple steps, The station can keep things running smoothly while ensuring their team stays protected and comfortable on the job.
In February 2025, a Noise Assessment was carried out at a manufacturing facility in Wakefield to check workplace noise levels and ensure employees are protected from excessive exposure. The assessment focused on areas including machinery, fabrication and quality control, where equipment and tools generate varying levels of noise.
The results showed that noise exposure varied across departments. Employees in the machinery section, particularly CNC operators and saw users, experienced levels exceeding 85 dB(A), requiring mandatory hearing protection. Fabrication workers had moderate exposure, nearing 80 dB(A), where protection is recommended but not mandatory. Those in quality control areas had lower noise exposure, below action levels.
To improve noise management, the report recommended enhancing hearing protection enforcement in high-noise areas, installing noise barriers where possible and implementing quieter equipment options. Training employees on proper hearing protection use and job rotation strategies was also advised to minimise long-term risks.
By following these recommendations and continuing regular noise monitoring, the facility can ensure a safer and more comfortable working environment, reducing the risk of hearing damage for employees.
In December 2024, a Noise Assessment was carried out at a Leeds fuelling shed, to evaluate workplace noise exposure and ensure that employees are protected from excessive sound levels. The focus was on key roles such as fitters, fuelling operatives and drivers, where exposure to noise from train engines, brakes and warning alarms could pose risks over time.
The results showed that most employees’ noise exposure was below the Lower Exposure Limit, meaning no immediate concerns. However, fuelling operatives were exposed to slightly higher noise levels, nearing the 80 dB(A) threshold. While this does not require mandatory hearing protection, it’s recommended that staff working in these areas have access to ear protection if needed.
To improve noise management, the report suggested reducing unnecessary idling of train engines, exploring quieter equipment options and ensuring regular noise exposure monitoring. Providing employees with clear guidance on noise risks and hearing protection use was also recommended.
By following these recommendations, the fuelling shed can maintain a safe and comfortable working environment, ensuring that employees are well-protected from long-term noise-related risks.
In November 2024 our team carried out a Noise Assessment was conducted at a manufacturing site in Leeds to evaluate workplace noise levels and ensure a safe and comfortable environment for employees. The assessment focused on identifying high-noise areas, assessing employee exposure and recommending practical solutions to minimise risks.
The results showed that certain areas, particularly those involving cutting and fabrication, had noise levels above recommended limits, making hearing protection mandatory in those zones. Employees working in these areas were provided with ear protection, but additional measures were suggested to further reduce exposure. These included better training on hearing protection, improved machine maintenance and exploring quieter equipment options.
The study also highlighted the need for ongoing health surveillance, with regular hearing checks recommended for employees working in high-noise areas. Simple steps like rotating workers between quieter and louder tasks were also suggested to minimise prolonged exposure.
By implementing these recommendations, the company can continue to maintain a safe and healthy work environment, reducing the risk of long-term hearing damage while improving overall workplace conditions. Ongoing monitoring and employee awareness will be key in keeping noise levels under control.