1. Noise

In the workplace, many activities and machines expose workers to noise. In certain circumstances, noise levels can be very high, leading to the risk of occupational deafness, especially when exposure is prolonged over many years. Given the large number of workers concerned, and the highly disabling nature of deafness, the public authorities have drawn up regulations to protect workers against the harmful effects of noise, and to reduce noise in the workplace.

After a brief review of the effects of noise, this paragraph describes how noise is characterized, both physically and in terms of its effects on humans. It then describes the regulations applicable in the workplace, followed by the measures required to ensure compliance with these regulations. Finally, it summarizes the applicable preventive measures.