Weekly Compliance Update: HSE Targets Noise and Vibration Risks

Hello everyone, Mark here from Livius Training. As we head into the latter half of October, I wanted to touch base on a critical development from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) that landed on our desks this week. On 13th October 2026, the HSE launched a new national campaign specifically targeting noise and vibration risks in the workplace. It is a timely reminder that health and safety isn't just about preventing slips, trips, and falls; it is about protecting your team from long-term, life-altering conditions like tinnitus and hand-arm vibration syndrome.

The statistics are sobering: around 15,000 workers develop hearing problems every year due to their work environment, and roughly one in five employees are exposed to harmful noise levels. The HSE is making it clear that they expect employers to stop waiting for the damage to be done before taking action. If you are running a business in manufacturing, construction, or any sector involving heavy machinery, this is your cue to review your current controls.

What does this mean for you?

If you are an employer, you have a legal duty under the Control of Noise at Work Regulations and the Control of Vibration at Work Regulations to assess and manage these risks. It is not enough to simply provide earplugs and hope for the best. You need to identify the source, reduce exposure at the source where possible, and ensure your staff are properly trained to use protective equipment.

Here are three practical steps you can take this week to ensure you are on the right side of the law:

• → Conduct a fresh risk assessment: Walk your floor with a critical eye. Are there machines that are louder than they need to be? Is there excessive vibration in handheld tools? Document these findings.
• → Review your health surveillance: Ensure you have a robust system for monitoring the health of employees exposed to these risks. If you are outsourcing this, ensure your provider is competent and qualified—the HSE has recently taken landmark enforcement action against providers who failed to meet basic clinical governance standards.
• → Refresh your training: Make sure your team understands why they need to wear PPE and how to report early symptoms of vibration or hearing loss. A well-informed team is your best line of defense.

At Livius Training, we have been helping businesses across Yorkshire and the wider UK navigate these complex regulations since 2009. We know that compliance can feel like a mountain to climb, but it really comes down to looking after your people. Whether you need help with your COSHH assessments, RIDDOR reporting, or accredited training for your staff, we are here to help without the corporate jargon.

If you are concerned about your current safety standards or just want to ensure your team is up to date, please get in touch. You can reach out to us at Livius Training to discuss your specific needs or book one of our upcoming accredited courses. Let’s keep your workplace safe, together.