Yes — and this is an area that is frequently overlooked by businesses in the hospitality sector. The Control of Noise at Work Regulations 2005 apply to all workplaces, including pubs, bars, nightclubs, live music venues and restaurants where amplified music is played. Workers in these environments can be exposed to significant noise levels, particularly bar staff, sound engineers and security personnel who spend extended periods close to speakers or in high-noise areas.

Research has consistently shown that noise levels in venues playing amplified music can regularly exceed 85 dB(A) and in some cases reach significantly higher levels. This places many hospitality workers firmly within the range where legal action is required, yet noise at work compliance in the sector remains poor.

The regulations do contain a specific provision that allows for a temporary exemption from certain requirements for the music and entertainment sectors, but this exemption is limited, subject to conditions, and requires consultation with employee representatives. It does not remove the obligation to carry out a noise assessment or to take all reasonably practicable steps to reduce noise exposure.

A noise assessment for a hospitality venue will typically involve measuring noise levels at various points in the venue during normal operating conditions — which means during actual service, with music at the levels normally used. This is important because noise levels can vary significantly depending on the time of day, the type of music being played, and the level at which it is set.

Practical control measures for hospitality venues might include setting maximum volume limits on sound systems, positioning speakers to minimise noise in areas where staff spend most of their time, providing quiet rest areas away from the music, rotating staff between high-noise and low-noise areas, and providing appropriate hearing protection for staff who cannot avoid high noise exposure.

If you run a hospitality business and have never carried out a noise assessment, LESH can help. We understand the practical constraints of the sector and will provide realistic, proportionate advice.

Also see our H&S Support Packages