Product Overview

Summary: This Noise Reduction Solutions Safe Operating Procedure sets out a practical, site-ready framework for identifying, controlling and monitoring hazardous workplace noise. It helps Australian businesses prevent noise-induced hearing loss, meet WHS obligations, and integrate effective noise controls into everyday operations without disrupting productivity.

Excessive workplace noise is one of the most common – and most preventable – causes of long-term hearing damage in Australian workplaces. From manufacturing plants and workshops to construction sites and logistics hubs, uncontrolled noise can lead to permanent hearing loss, tinnitus, reduced concentration, and increased incident rates. This Noise Reduction Solutions Safe Operating Procedure provides a structured, repeatable method for assessing noise risks, implementing engineering and administrative controls, and ensuring workers are consistently protected in line with Australian WHS requirements.

The procedure guides you through the full lifecycle of noise management: from initial noise mapping and risk assessment, through to selection and maintenance of noise control measures such as acoustic barriers, equipment modifications, isolation, job rotation, and hearing protection. It clarifies roles and responsibilities, embeds consultation with workers, and sets out practical monitoring and review processes so that noise controls remain effective as plant, equipment and work practices change. By adopting this SOP, organisations can demonstrate due diligence, reduce the likelihood of workers’ compensation claims and regulatory enforcement, and create a safer, more comfortable environment that supports focus and productivity.

Key Benefits

• Ensure compliance with Australian WHS legislation and Safe Work Australia’s guidance on managing noise and preventing hearing loss at work.
• Reduce the risk of noise-induced hearing loss, tinnitus and related health impacts for workers and contractors.
• Standardise a clear, step-by-step approach to assessing, controlling and reviewing workplace noise across multiple sites or departments.
• Demonstrate due diligence to regulators, clients and insurers through documented noise management practices and records.
• Optimise productivity and worker comfort by integrating noise reduction solutions that minimise disruption to normal operations.

Who is this for?

• WHS Managers
• Health and Safety Representatives (HSRs)
• Site Supervisors
• Operations Managers
• Facilities Managers
• Maintenance Supervisors
• Manufacturing and Production Managers
• Construction Project Managers
• Mining and Quarry Managers
• Human Resources Managers
• Risk and Compliance Managers

Hazards Addressed

• Exposure to hazardous noise levels leading to noise-induced hearing loss
• Tinnitus and other long-term auditory disorders
• Reduced communication and inability to hear warnings or alarms
• Increased risk of incidents due to distraction or fatigue from sustained noise
• Psychological stress and reduced wellbeing associated with noisy environments

Included Sections

• 1.0 Purpose and Scope
• 2.0 Definitions and Key Terms (including hazardous noise and exposure standards)
• 3.0 Roles, Responsibilities and Consultation Requirements
• 4.0 Applicable Legislation, Standards and Codes of Practice
• 5.0 Noise Risk Identification and Initial Screening
• 6.0 Noise Measurement, Monitoring and Assessment Procedures
• 7.0 Hierarchy of Noise Controls and Selection of Noise Reduction Solutions
• 8.0 Engineering Controls (isolation, dampening, enclosures and equipment modification)
• 9.0 Administrative Controls (scheduling, job rotation, restricted access and signage)
• 10.0 Hearing Protection Selection, Fit, Use and Maintenance
• 11.0 Training, Induction and Worker Consultation on Noise Risks
• 12.0 Health Monitoring and Audiometric Testing Requirements
• 13.0 Implementation Plan and Integration with Existing WHS Systems
• 14.0 Recordkeeping, Documentation and Reporting
• 15.0 Inspection, Review and Continuous Improvement of Noise Controls
• 16.0 Emergency and Abnormal Noise Event Response
• 17.0 References and Supporting Documents

Legislation & References

• Model Work Health and Safety Regulations – Part 4.1 Hazardous Work (Noise)
• Safe Work Australia – Code of Practice: Managing Noise and Preventing Hearing Loss at Work
• AS/NZS 1269.1: Occupational noise management – Measurement and assessment of noise immission and exposure
• AS/NZS 1269.2: Occupational noise management – Noise control management
• AS/NZS 1269.3: Occupational noise management – Hearing protector program
• AS/NZS 1270: Acoustics – Hearing protectors
• AS/NZS ISO 45001: Occupational health and safety management systems – Requirements with guidance for use