Pubs and clubs warned over noise levels

A City of York Council team surveyed 24 venues across the city to assess whether noise levels were dangerous to staff.

Action was taken after it was discovered music playing above 105 decibels at several premises - the equivalent to working with a pneumatic drill.

Regulations require employers to assess and reduce the noise levels workers are exposed to and protect hearing to prevent damage.

Adrian Watson, manager of the food and safety unit, said: "Music is often not regarded as noise so employers don't think they have to do anything in relation to staff safety.

"This usually means staff are working in very noisy environments with no protection for their hearing.

"Although the solution may seem an obvious one, customers are there to hear the music at loud levels and so lowering levels may not be a viable answer.

"Employers need to consider other controls such as repositioning speakers, rotating staff to quieter areas or installing limiter devices to control the music output."

The unit have now provided employers with information about how to carry out assessments and practical steps to reduce sound levels.

Mr Watson added: "As a rule of thumb, if staff can't hear customers ordering their drinks from across the bar without shouting then employers are likely to be in breach of regulations."

Coun Derek Smallwood, the council's executive member for the environment, said: "Noise induced hearing loss is one of the biggest causes of occupational ill health and is only now being realised because of the long term effect it has on hearing.

"By helping employers identify whether they have a problem and providing practical advice, the unit is helping to tackle it now."

Employers are being urged to visit the unit's weekly advice surgery if they have concerns.

The next surgery will be today from 12noon until 3pm at 9, St Leonard's Place, or telephone 01904 551525 for a free leaflet.

Updated: 08:48 Wednesday, December 19, 2001