So how does this work in practice? The regulations specify the quantity of sound exposure on both a daily and weekly basis and on different types of day (eg set-up, single-show and two-show days).
Tim Sherratt argues that standard handheld SPL meters cannot provide the correct time averaged measurements required by law. These will result in over-inflated figures and would lead to preventative measures being unnecessarily implemented, he believes. Within a theatre environment employees work in different areas with different noise levels. Therefore all areas must be assessed including on stage, side of stage, orchestra pit, FOH engineer, Fly Floors and FOH staff.
It is easy to implement, he says, and the dosemeters allow unsupervised measurements to be taken by the company manager. But the new regulations are very specific in what actions are required to be undertaken by the employer. The law states three different action levels for daily average and peak sound pressure levels.
Orbital Sound have also designed reporting software that interprets the results from which appropriate risk assessments (with consequent recommendations) can be provided. For touring productions results can be approximated for all venues from measurements taken during the production period.
In the event of action being required Orbital Sound offer a variety of solutions including: disposable ear plugs, linear ear plugs, alternative communication headsets and other in-ear solutions.
Orbital currently offer a special package price to TMA (Theatrical Managers Association) and SOLT members (Society of London Theatres).
For an all-in price of £1259 (ex VAT), including written reports, the company will supply the employer with an environmental assessment to determine which employees need to be measured (up to a maximum of 15 measured over three machines); the hire of up to five dosemeter badges and keyfob; simple user guidelines, log sheets and forms (to detail employees work patterns); an engineer to ensure badges are fitted correctly; data retrieval and analysis; sale of simple protective devices, and finally hearing tests where necessary.
Tim Sherratt concludes, The Control of Noise At Work Regulations is something that every employer needs to be cogniscent of, but it is simply a change in working practice it is not a difficult procedure.
This workable document for the entertainment industry demonstrates that we are one of the first companies in the industry to take it seriously. In fact we are delighted with the speed of the initial take-up, which indicates that employers are taking a responsible approach to this.
The aim longer term, he says, will be to implement this as part of an H&SE policy.
For further information (or to arrange a meeting) contact Orbitals technical support on +44 207 501 6868.
So how does this work in practice? The regulations specify the quantity of sound exposure on both a daily and weekly basis and on different types of day (eg set-up, single-show and two-show days).
Tim Sherratt argues that standard handheld SPL meters cannot provide the correct time averaged measurements required by law. These will result in over-inflated figures and would lead to preventative measures being unnecessarily implemented, he believes. Within a theatre environment employees work in different areas with different noise levels. Therefore all areas must be assessed including on stage, side of stage, orchestra pit, FOH engineer, Fly Floors and FOH staff.
It is easy to implement, he says, and the dosemeters allow unsupervised measurements to be taken by the company manager. But the new regulations are very specific in what actions are required to be undertaken by the employer. The law states three different action levels for daily average and peak sound pressure levels.
Orbital Sound have also designed reporting software that interprets the results from which appropriate risk assessments (with consequent recommendations) can be provided. For touring productions results can be approximated for all venues from measurements taken during the production period.
In the event of action being required Orbital Sound offer a variety of solutions including: disposable ear plugs, linear ear plugs, alternative communication headsets and other in-ear solutions.
Orbital currently offer a special package price to TMA (Theatrical Managers Association) and SOLT members (Society of London Theatres).
For an all-in price of £1259 (ex VAT), including written reports, the company will supply the employer with an environmental assessment to determine which employees need to be measured (up to a maximum of 15 measured over three machines); the hire of up to five dosemeter badges and keyfob; simple user guidelines, log sheets and forms (to detail employees work patterns); an engineer to ensure badges are fitted correctly; data retrieval and analysis; sale of simple protective devices, and finally hearing tests where necessary.
Tim Sherratt concludes, The Control of Noise At Work Regulations is something that every employer needs to be cogniscent of, but it is simply a change in working practice it is not a difficult procedure.
This workable document for the entertainment industry demonstrates that we are one of the first companies in the industry to take it seriously. In fact we are delighted with the speed of the initial take-up, which indicates that employers are taking a responsible approach to this.
The aim longer term, he says, will be to implement this as part of an H&SE policy.
For further information (or to arrange a meeting) contact Orbitals technical support on +44 207 501 6868.
