Noise Exposure Limits on Site
Noise Exposure Limits on Site
Noise-induced hearing loss is permanent -- the inner-ear hair cells do not grow back. Jackhammers, grinders and concrete saws stack up across a career. The exposure limits, and a 2026 changeover date to diarise.
The limits
| 8-hour exposure limit | 85 dB(A) over an 8-hour shift -- at or above this, a full hearing-conservation programme applies |
| Combined-exposure action level | 82 dB(A) -- a NEW, lower action level ONLY for noise combined with ototoxic chemicals and/or whole-body vibration (not a new limit for everyone) |
| Impulse / peak noise | Action level 135 dB(C), limit 137 dB(C) |
The 2026 changeover
| Old rules | Noise-Induced Hearing Loss Regulations 2003 stay in force until 6 September 2026 |
| New rules | Noise Exposure Regulations 2024 (Gazette 52226, 6 March 2025) bite after 6 September 2026 -- move your noise programme across before then |
Medical surveillance and controls
- Audiometry: a pre-placement baseline, annual surveillance while exposed, and an exit audiogram
- Control order: engineer the noise out first, then administrative controls (rotation, quiet periods), then SABS-approved hearing protection last
- Hearing loss is compensable under COIDA on a permanent-disability percentage
Reference only -- not medical advice. Do not quote 140 dB(C) for peak -- that was the old figure; the current limit is 137 dB(C). The 85 dB(A) limit stays; 82 dB(A) is combined-exposure only. Re-check the live position at labour.gov.za, given the 6 September 2026 changeover.
Sources: Noise Exposure Regulations 2024 (Gazette 52226, 6 March 2025) · Noise-Induced Hearing Loss Regulations 2003 · Department of Employment and Labour
SiteKiln provides general guidance only. This is not legal, tax, financial or professional advice. Always verify information and seek professional advice if unsure. © SiteKiln 2026