S.L. 646.20 Art. 1Title, scope and applicability.

(1) The title of these regulations is the Work Place

(Minimum Health and Safety Requirements for the Protection of Workers from Risks resulting from exposure to Noise) Regulations.

(2) The scope of these regulations is to lay down minimum requirements for the protection of workers from risks to their health and safety arising or likely to arise from exposure to noise and in particular the risk to hearing. The requirements of these regulations shall apply to all those activities in which workers are, or are likely to be exposed to risks from noise as a result of their work. These regulations shall implement Directive 2003/10/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council.

(3) These regulations shall apply fully to all workers without prejudice to more stringent and, or more specific provisions contained in any other law or regulation on the protection of workers from the risks related to exposure to noise.

(4) These regulations shall come into force on the date of publication: Provided that, with regards to members of the crew on board seagoing vessels, the provisions of regulation 7 shall come into force on the 5th February, 2011: Provided further that with regards to workers working in the music and entertainment sectors, these regulations shall come into force on the 5th February 2008, on condition that the levels of protection already achieved are maintained.