Smart, simple steps to manage noise without overspending.
When supporting Australian workplaces in WHS and compliance, I’ve seen how workplace noise is one of those risks that’s easy to overlook, until it isn’t.
You might hear a complaint here or there, or you know the machines are loud but replacement costs are out of the question.
The truth is, excessive noise is more than an annoyance…it’s a safety risk and a legal compliance issue under Australian WHS laws.
Here’s how to identify and manage noise risks, even when you don’t have time, budget, or technical expertise on your side.
Quick Answer: Managing Noise Risks on a Budget
Question: What are low-cost ways to manage workplace noise risk in Australia?
Answer:
You can manage workplace noise risk without major expense by rotating staff to limit exposure, maintaining equipment to reduce vibration and rattling, scheduling noisy tasks outside of peak hours, and using curtains or barriers to block sound. These steps help you stay compliant with WHS laws and protect workers’ hearing, even on a tight budget.
1. Understand What Makes Noise Risky
Noise becomes hazardous when it:
- Reaches 85 dB(A) over an 8-hour shift
- Or peaks above 140 dB(C) at any moment
According to the Safe Work Australia Code of Practice, if workers need to raise their voices to be heard at a distance of one metre, noise levels are likely to exceed safe limits. That’s a practical red flag.
2. Start with Simple, Low-Cost Controls
You may not be able to replace equipment or redesign your layout—but you can still take action:
- Schedule noisy tasks outside peak working times
- Rotate staff to limit exposure times
- Maintain equipment to reduce unnecessary noise
- Use barriers (curtains, panels) where possible to block sound
These aren’t perfect fixes, but they reduce risk while buying you time for bigger solutions.
3. Don’t Let Budget Stop You From Taking Action
Too often, business owners think: “We can’t afford to fix the noise, so we won’t do anything.”
But SafeWork NSW expects you to show that you’ve:
- Identified noise hazards
- Taken reasonably practicable steps to control the risk
- Recorded your process (especially if you’re audited or inspected)
Real-World Example
A small food manufacturer had high ambient noise but no funds for soundproofing. We introduced administrative controls like rotating staff between quieter and louder areas, added rubber anti-vibration pads under machines, and improved maintenance routines. These minor investments made a measurable difference and demonstrated due diligence.
4. Use Noise Reports Strategically
If you’ve had a professional noise assessment done, make sure you actually use the data:
- Highlight high-exposure zones or tasks
- Use the data to prioritise what needs addressing first
- Share key results with staff and explain any new controls
Your report isn’t just for documentation…it’s a decision-making tool.
5. Why Hearing Protection Alone Won’t Keep You Compliant
Providing earmuffs or earplugs is a great step, but it’s not enough on its own.
Under the WHS legislation, you are required to manage noise risks using the hierarchy of controls. That means:
- Eliminating or substituting noisy equipment (if possible)
- Using engineering controls like sound barriers or isolation
- Applying administrative controls like rotating staff or limiting exposure time
PPE (hearing protection) should only be used after higher-level controls have been considered or to supplement them when full control isn’t possible.
Relying solely on PPE, without showing you’ve considered more effective options, puts you at risk of non-compliance and puts your workers at risk of harm.
SafeWork NSW Noise Risk Guidance
Ready to Take Action?
Managing workplace noise doesn’t have to cost a fortune, but ignoring it can.
By taking small, proactive steps now, you’ll reduce risks, support worker wellbeing, and strengthen your compliance position with regulators.
If you’re not sure where to start, we can help. We offer Workplace Noise Assessments across NSW and ACT to give you a clear picture of your risks and priorities. You can learn more here: Workplace Noise Assessments & WHS Compliance.
Free Noise Resources to Make It Easier:
Noise Math Made Simple – A One-Page Guide to Understanding Decibels (Download the PDF)
Examples of Common Workplace Noise Levels — See typical dB ranges for equipment like chainsaws, forklifts, and grinders (Download the PDF)
ABOUT THE Author - Kylie Dowell
Kylie Dowell is a seasoned WHS consultant, trainer, and safety advocate with over 25 years of experience helping Australian businesses create safer, compliant workplaces.
Through her partnership with TEAMS, an accredited Registered Training Organisation, Kylie delivers a wide range of training up to Advanced Diploma level, empowering businesses with the knowledge and skills to manage safety effectively.
As an approved trainer for Health and Safety Representative (HSR) courses by three Safety Regulators, Kylie has guided countless organisations in building stronger safety cultures and fostering healthier work environments.
Specialising in practical and effective safety solutions, she works closely with small and medium-sized businesses to simplify complex WHS requirements, making safety approachable and achievable.
When she’s not delivering high-quality training or conducting ISO 45001-certified audits, Kylie enjoys collaborating with her clients to design tailored workshops and strategies that suit their unique needs.
Ready to make safety simpler? Get in touch with Kylie today for personalised support.