Noise and vibrations in the work environment – risk assessment and exposure

Noise and vibrations can cause both long-term health damage and acute safety risks. AFS 2023:10 requires the employer to investigate exposure, assess risks, and take measures when exposure or risk assessment warrants it.

Noise – assess more than just the risk of hearing damage

The risk assessment must also consider whether noise masks warning signals, affects communication, or interacts with other factors. When action values are reached or exceeded, specific measures must be taken. Hearing protection is important but should not replace the opportunity to reduce noise at the source.

Vibrations – hand/arm and whole-body

Vibration exposure depends on both the vibration level and the duration of the work. The employer must, among other things, consider alternative methods, equipment with lower vibration, maintenance, better workplace design, and training. Individual sensitivity may cause injuries even below the limit values.

When is measurement necessary?

If exposure cannot be reliably assessed from technical data and actual work usage, measurement may be necessary. The results should represent actual working conditions and be used to plan measures, not just be saved as a measurement report.

Medical check-ups and early signals

AFS 2023:15 contains requirements for medical check-ups for certain vibration exposures, including when hand-arm vibrations exceed the action value or when there is a suspicion of vibration-related injury. Early reporting of numbness, white fingers, pain, or hearing problems is important.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Measuring but not translating results into action.
• Only providing hearing protection without reducing noise at the source.
• Using the manufacturer's vibration value without considering actual usage time.
• Failing to account for particularly sensitive employees.
• Forgetting to re-assess after changes to machinery, processes, or working hours.

Common questions and answers

Is 85 dB always the only important noise limit?

No. The regulations have both lower and upper action values and several exposure metrics, including peak value.

Is hearing protection enough if the noise is loud?

No. Primarily, the employer must reduce the risk through technical and organizational measures; hearing protection is part of the protection.

How is vibration exposure calculated?

It is assessed as daily A(8) exposure based on vibration level and exposure time.

When is a medical check-up required for vibrations?

Among other times, when hand-arm vibrations exceed the action value or when exposure gives cause to suspect ill health according to AFS 2023:15.

Sources and further reading

• Swedish Work Environment Authority – AFS 2023:10 Risks in the work environment
• Swedish Work Environment Authority – AFS 2023:15 Medical check-ups

Last updated: October 5, 2026. This article provides general information and does not replace a business-specific work environment assessment.