28/09/2026
📢 IMPORTANT OHS UPDATE | NEW NOISE EXPOSURE REGULATIONS
South African workplaces need to take note of the Noise Exposure Regulations, 2024, which replace the previous Noise-Induced Hearing Loss Regulations. The new framework introduces a more comprehensive approach to identifying, assessing and controlling occupational noise exposure.
Some important requirements and changes include:
🔹 Noise Exposure Risk Assessments – workplaces must assess and categorise noise exposure. Assessments must generally be repeated at intervals not exceeding 24 months and reviewed sooner when circumstances change.
🔹 Noise Exposure Monitoring – where the risk assessment indicates relevant exposure, a monitoring programme is required, with prescribed monitoring generally at least every 24 months and conducted by an approved noise inspection authority.
🔹 Ototoxic Chemicals & Vibration – the regulations specifically recognise the combined risk of noise with ototoxic chemical agents and whole-body vibration, meaning noise should not always be assessed in isolation.
🔹 Training Requirements – employees likely to be exposed to noise must receive appropriate information, instruction and training, with refresher training at least annually.
🔹 Medical Surveillance & Audiometry – employers must implement the required medical screening and surveillance measures, including audiometry where applicable. A dedicated Code of Practice for Audiometry forms part of the new framework.
🔹 Hearing Protection & Noise Controls – employers must manage exposure through appropriate control measures and hearing protection, rather than relying on PPE alone.
🔹 Record Keeping – specified records relating to training, risk assessments, exposure monitoring, medical surveillance and control measures must be retained for 40 years.
⚠️ Is your workplace ready?
Protecting employees’ hearing starts with identifying the risk before permanent hearing loss occurs.
