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A Work Environment Authority (Arbetsmiljöverket) decision will result in a tightening-up of the rules governing employers whose workers are exposed to health risks from noise and vibrations. Hundreds of thousands of workers will be affected by the decisions.
Noise
Nearly 30% of men and 16% of women suffer noise discomfort at work. In 2003, nearly 1,700 reported occupational diseases (7% of the total) were noise-related. The new rules lay down more detailed requirements on risk assessment, measurement, preventive measures, hearing checks, participation, information and training. Protection against noise-related hearing damage has been improved by prescribing a lower limit value - 80 dB per 8-hour day - from which workers must be supplied with ear protection and information, amongst other things.
Vibrations
Men are more exposed to vibrations than women. The old rules applied only to hand-arm vibration caused by hand-operated equipment like drills and sanders. Now, whole-body vibration will be included, too.
Authority experts estimate that nearly 30% of some kinds of machinery and vehicles cause vibrations against which employers will have to develop and implement technical and/or organizational measures. Some medical checks and training provision will be compulsory.
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