Noise level
Noise can be defined as undesired sound, or sound which causes disturbance or annoyance to the recipient. One scientific measure of noise levels is the decibel (dB), which is calculated according to a logarithmic intensity scale.
Noise levels between 120 dB and 150 dB (e.g., aeroplanes taking off and landing, drilling and sawing of roadways) are dangerous to human hearing. 'Pleasant' noise levels are between 30 dB and 50 dB, though these levels are sometimes unachievable in today's society. For a list of related article see also Noise related articles.
The Government has defined three noise levels:
- No observed effect level – the level of noise exposure where there is no effect on health or the quality of life.
- Lowest observed effect level – adverse effects on health and the quality of life can be detected.
- Significant observed adverse effect level – the level of noise exposure where there can be significant effects on health and quality of life.
In Great Britain, over one million employees are exposed to noise levels at their workplace which pose a risk to their hearing.
In April 2006, the Control of Noise at Work Regulations 2005 came into force, replacing the Noise at Work Regulations 1989. The regulations were established under the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 and implemented the European Council directive 2003/10/EC. The regulations require that employers protect their employees from noise levels that could cause hearing damage.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings
Featured articles and news
Future Homes Standard Essentials launched
Future Homes Hub launches new campaign to help the homebuilding sector prepare for the implementation of new building standards.
Building Safety recap February, 2026
Our regular run-down of key building safety related events of the month.
Planning reform: draft NPPF and industry responses.
Last chance to comment on proposed changes to the NPPF.
A Regency palace of colour and sensation. Book review.
Delayed, derailed and devalued
How the UK’s planning crisis is undermining British manufacturing.
How much does it cost to build a house?
A brief run down of key considerations from a London based practice.
The need for a National construction careers campaign
Highlighted by CIOB to cut unemployment, reduce skills gap and deliver on housing and infrastructure ambitions.
AI-Driven automation; reducing time, enhancing compliance
Sustainability; not just compliance but rethinking design, material selection, and the supply chains to support them.
Climate Resilience and Adaptation In the Built Environment
New CIOB Technical Information Sheet by Colin Booth, Professor of Smart and Sustainable Infrastructure.
Turning Enquiries into Profitable Construction Projects
Founder of Develop Coaching and author of Building Your Future; Greg Wilkes shares his insights.
IHBC Signpost: Poetry from concrete
Scotland’s fascinating historic concrete and brutalist architecture with the Engine Shed.
Demonstrating that apprenticeships work for business, people and Scotland’s economy.
Scottish parents prioritise construction and apprenticeships
CIOB data released for Scottish Apprenticeship Week shows construction as top potential career path.
From a Green to a White Paper and the proposal of a General Safety Requirement for construction products.
Creativity, conservation and craft at Barley Studio. Book review.
The challenge as PFI agreements come to an end
How construction deals with inherited assets built under long-term contracts.
Skills plan for engineering and building services
Comprehensive industry report highlights persistent skills challenges across the sector.
Choosing the right design team for a D&B Contract
An architect explains the nature and needs of working within this common procurement route.
Statement from the Interim Chief Construction Advisor
Thouria Istephan; Architect and inquiry panel member outlines ongoing work, priorities and next steps.