Noise Course – Workplace Noise Training
Workplace noise courses are legally mandated training for employees exposed to harmful noise. Noise-induced hearing loss is among the most common occupational diseases in Norway, and the damage is irreversible. With proper training, you will learn to protect your hearing and understand when and how noise reduction measures must be implemented.
Komplett HMS offers online noise courses that can be completed 100% digitally. The course is available in several languages, and you receive a digital course certificate immediately after passing the knowledge test.
Legal Requirements for Noise Training
Several laws and regulations govern the requirements for noise training in Norwegian working life:
- Regulations on the Performance of Work Sections 14-1 to 14-8: The employer must survey noise levels and ensure training for employees exposed to noise.
- Regulations on Organization, Management, and Participation Section 8-1: Requirement for risk assessment of noise exposure.
- Working Environment Act Section 4-4: Requirement for a sound physical working environment, including noise.
- Internal Control Regulations: Requirement for systematic documentation of noise-related risk assessments and measures.
The action value for noise is 80 dB(A) over 8 hours. At this level, the employer must offer hearing protection and provide training. The exposure limit is 85 dB(A), and at this level, measures are mandatory. For impulsive noise (bangs, impacts), specific peak values apply: 130 dB(C) (action value) and 130 dB(C) (exposure limit).
Who Needs a Noise Course?
All employees exposed to noise levels above the action value need training. Employers are legally obligated to ensure that these employees receive the necessary training. Typical occupational groups that need workplace noise courses:
- Carpenters and joiners
- Concrete workers
- Construction workers and machine operators
- Industrial workers
- Blasters and drilling rig workers
- Welders and sheet metal workers
- Safety delegates and HSE managers
- Music and entertainment industry professionals
In construction, noise exposure is very common. Many tools like angle grinders, hammer drills, nail guns, and chainsaws generate noise well above the exposure limits. Without proper training and protective equipment, employees can develop permanent hearing damage.
What Do You Learn in the Noise Course?
The noise course at Komplett HMS covers all topics required by regulations:
- Laws and regulations related to workplace noise
- What noise is and how it is measured (decibels, frequency)
- Health consequences of noise exposure – hearing loss, tinnitus, and other ailments
- Action and exposure limits for noise
- Noise reduction measures: at the source, along the transmission path, and at the receiver
- Selection and correct use of hearing protection
- Noise mapping and measurement in the workplace
- Employer and employee duties under the Working Environment Act
Employer's Responsibility for Noise Exposure
The employer has extensive responsibility regarding workplace noise. According to the Working Environment Act, the employer must ensure that noise levels are surveyed, that necessary measures are implemented, and that all exposed employees receive training. This includes offering health examinations (audiometry) to employees exposed to noise above the action value. Documentation of all measures must be included in the company's internal control system.
Consequences of Inadequate Noise Training
Failure to provide legally mandated noise training can have serious consequences:
- Permanent hearing damage to employees – Noise-induced hearing loss is permanent and cannot be treated or reversed
- Orders from the Norwegian Labour Inspection Authority – During inspections, lack of noise training can lead to penalty fees and orders for immediate training
- Work stoppage – In severe cases, the Norwegian Labour Inspection Authority can stop work until training is completed
- Compensation claims – Employees who develop hearing damage can claim compensation if the employer has not provided mandated training
- Insurance problems – Lack of documentation of training can affect insurance coverage in case of occupational illness
In 2026, noise-related occupational injuries are still among the most reported to NAV. Prevention through training is the most important measure employers can take.
Course Format and Practical Information
The noise course is web-based and takes approximately 2–3 hours to complete. You can take the course anytime, on a PC, mobile, or tablet. The course is practical and provides you with concrete tools to manage noise in your daily work.
After passing the knowledge test, you receive a digital course certificate immediately. The course certificate serves as documentation for the Norwegian Labour Inspection Authority and can be stored digitally or printed.
The course is available in several languages, making it ideal for companies with foreign workers in construction.
Feel free to combine with dangerous tools course and HSE course for employees for complete training.
Frequently Asked Questions about Noise Courses
What is the exposure limit for noise at work?
The action value is 80 dB(A) and the exposure limit is 85 dB(A) over an 8-hour workday. For impulsive noise (bangs, impacts), specific peak values apply: 130 dB(C) (action value) and 130 dB(C) (exposure limit).
Can noise cause permanent hearing damage?
Yes, noise-induced hearing loss is permanent and cannot be treated. That's why prevention through proper training and the use of hearing protection is so important.
How often should the noise course be renewed?
It is recommended to renew the training every 2–3 years, or when significant changes occur in the working environment. See also our guide on the internal control regulations for requirements for systematic HSE work.
Is the online noise course approved?
Yes, the web-based noise course is fully approved and meets the legal requirements for training. The course concludes with a knowledge test, and you receive a course certificate as documentation.
Why Choose Komplett HMS for Noise Courses?
- 100% online – Flexible and mobile-friendly, can be completed at your convenience
- Available in several languages – Perfect for diverse teams in construction
- Instant course certificate – Digital course certificate on the same day after passing the knowledge test
- 5 out of 5 stars on Google – Norway's highest-rated HSE course provider
- Complete solution – All HSE courses for construction gathered in one place
Do you have questions about noise courses for your company? Contact us by phone at 466 66 467 or email at kundeservice@kompletthms.no.