Controlling Noise at Work - Code of Practice for Controlling Risks due to Noise on Ships

This MCA Code of Practice helps designers, builders, owners and managers of ships comply with the Merchant Shipping and Fishing Vessels (Control of Noise at Work) Regulations 2007. Based on HSE guidance relating to the Control of Noise at Work Regulations 2005, it has been updated in line with changes to related legislation, technical advances and experience.

It covers:

• legal duties of employers
• control of risks from noise
• practical examples of noise control
• hearing protection
• health surveillance
• selecting quieter equipment

The relevant text from the Noise Regulations is set out in full with practical guidance underneath. Key points and warnings are highlighted, together with case studies and worked examples.

If employers comply with the Noise Regulations and follow the Maritime and Coastguard Agency?s guidance, employees are unlikely to develop advanced (disabling) stages of hearing damage.

Those primarily affected by noise regulations will be operators and managers of ships and fishing vessels and other marine craft, including yachts, work boats, etc. registered in the UK on which workers are employed.

This guidance is also aimed at people who advise employers, such as health and safety professionals, noise specialists and occupational health professionals.

The Maritime Coastguard Agency (MCA) implements the government's maritime safety policy in the UK and works to prevent the loss of life on the coast and at sea.

They provide a 24-hour maritime search and rescue service around the UK coast and in the international search and rescue region through HM Coastguard, and inspect and survey ships to ensure that they are meeting UK and international safety rules. They also provide certification to seafarers, register vessels and respond to pollution from shipping and offshore installations. The publications from MCA include record books, health and safety guidance and mandatory documents for all ships.

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