EU noise directive could impact call centre staff

A new EU Noise Directive, due to be written into UK law by April this year, could impact on the working practices of UK insurers using call centres as it will tighten restrictions relating to the threshold of noise in which employees are permitted to work.

Directive 2003/10/EC, referring to the minimum health and safety requirements where workers are exposed to noise, will repeal Directive 86/188/EEC, which falls under the terms of the 1989 Noise at Work Regulations.

The Health & Safety Execut