Workplace Noise and Your Hearing in Singapore: Know the 85 dB Limit
From construction sites and shipyards to factories, kitchens, and event venues, many Singapore workers spend long hours around loud noise. Because hearing damage from noise builds up slowly and painlessly, it is easy to ignore until the damage is already done. At The Hearing Centre, we see working adults who have noticed ringing in their ears or trouble following conversations after years in noisy jobs. Here is what you should know about workplace noise in Singapore, and how to protect your hearing. What Singapore's Workplace Noise Rules Say Singapore's Workplace Safety and Health (Noise) Regulations 2011 apply to all workplaces, not just factories. Under these rules, the permissible exposure limit for noise is an average of 85 dB(A) over an 8-hour workday, or a peak sound level above 140 dB(C). Employers are expected to assess noise risks, control noise at the source where possible, and provide hearing protection where exposure remains too high. Companies with 10 or mo...