Noise and vibration

The main risk to health from noise exposure, other than permanent loss of hearing, is stress and fatigue. Noise levels of most equipment, such as hair dryers and radios, in the health and beauty industry are generally not high enough to cause hearing loss. However, some workers and clients may find the noise levels annoying.

If a worker has used a personal security alarm in an emergency situation, he or she should be tested by an audiologist or ear, nose or throat specialist to establish whether or not hearing damage has occurred.

Equipment, such as hand held hair dryers, body massagers and electric nail files and drills emit vibration. Workers who use this equipment are at risk of developing Raynaud's disease and/or carpal tunnel syndrome The onset of these conditions depends on:

type of equipment used
length of use
postures that equipment is used in

Employers should consult with workers and take steps to minimise risk from exposure to noise and vibration at work.

Control measures

Substitution

Replace existing equipment with equipment that emits a lower level of noise and vibration.

Redesign

Rearrange the layout of the workplace to separate noisy work activities from less noisy activities.
Install sound absorbing material on ceiling and walls to reduce the sound level.

Administrative controls

Adopt a 'buy quiet' policy for all new equipment.
Make sure all equipment is maintained and in a good condition.
Make sure workers vary working postures regularly to minimise exposure to vibration, e.g. alternate the equipment between hands.
Provide workers with training and information about noise and vibration.

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