What are the noise exposure limits for construction?

Under the Control of Noise at Work Regulations 2005: Lower exposure action value is 80 dB(A) daily exposure. Upper exposure action value is 85 dB(A). Exposure limit value is 87 dB(A) - this must never be exceeded (taking hearing protection into account).

LEP,d is the daily personal noise exposure level, normalised to an 8-hour working day. It accounts for both the noise level and the duration of exposure. A higher noise level for a shorter time can give the same LEP,d as a lower level for longer.

How effective is hearing protection really?

Real-world protection is typically 50% of the rated NRR (Noise Reduction Rating). A protector rated at NRR 30 provides roughly 15 dB of actual protection. This is because of fit, comfort-related adjustment, and wear conditions on construction sites.

What hearing protection should tradespeople use?

For construction: ear defenders (muffs) providing NRR 25-30 for high-noise tools, or moulded ear plugs (NRR 20-25) for moderate noise. Electronic defenders allow speech while blocking impulse noise. Ensure the SNR or NRR is adequate for your noise level.

How long can I use noisy tools without protection?

At 100 dB(A), you reach the 85 dB limit in about 15 minutes. At 105 dB, just 5 minutes. At 110 dB, less than 2 minutes. Most construction power tools require hearing protection for any period of use.

TradeCalculator

Noise Exposure Calculator

Calculate daily noise exposure (LEP,d) and check against HSE action levels

Tool Type

Noise Level

Exposure Duration

How We Calculate This

Select a tool type (or enter a custom dB level) and the duration of use. The calculator computes the daily personal noise exposure LEP,d using the formula: LEP,d = Laeq + 10*log10(T/8). This is compared against the UK Control of Noise at Work Regulations 2005 action values. If hearing protection is specified, the real-world effective reduction (50% of NRR) is applied to show the protected exposure level.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Last updated: March 2026

All calculations are estimates. Verify with your supplier.