ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses the effects of noise: acute effects and chronic effects. It discusses noise measurement, requirements of noise at work regulations, and noise action levels. The chapter reviews different noise control techniques such as reduction of noise at source and change equipment or process. The common measures used to control ergonomic ill-health effects are, for example, introducing job rotation or frequent breaks so that workers have a reduced time exposure to the hazard and ensuring that a programme of preventative maintenance is introduced and regular inspection of items such as vibration isolation mountings is carried out. The chapter lists out the actions for controlling the risks from whole-body vibration. It discusses typical issues that can occur outside the workplace but can contribute to mental health problems at the workplace. Alcohol and solvent abuse is a considerable problem when vehicle driving is part of the job, especially if driving is required on public roads.
