Sound Advice - The Law

In todays society we are being subjected to more and more government restrictions. Listening to music is no exception. Whilst most of the advice given on the Health and Safety Executive website is aimed at industry, some of it can also apply to sound amplification. These restrictions and the advice apply to two areas, Environment and Health & Safety.

Environmentally, creating loud or persistant sound, especially in a restricted space, can cause a nuisance to people in the vicinity. Sound travels well outdoors, especially at night when the air is cool, denser and still. Therefore, before putting on an event you may have to consult with the Local Authority and it is only polite to inform local residents of your intentions, the duration of the event and the sort of music to be played. You may even like to invite them to attend. Also remember, you may have to remind your audience to leave quiety late at night if in a built up area.

If a Local Authority Environmental Officer or the Police orders us to turn it down or off - we will!

Since concerts and gigs generally only last for a couple of hours, Health and Safety does not usually apply to the audience. The ear tends to be more tolerant of high volumes in music and will quickly recover after a concert - remember that ringing you get, it goes after a while. However, you may still have to put an appropriate warning at the entrance. Also, please remember the sound engineer. Working with high sound levels every night may require him/her to use ear protection.

Please also be aware that many venues have Sound Pressure Level (SPL) sensors that cut the power off if they are tripped by higher sound levels than they are set for. We will therefore have to set the rig up accordingly. Don't blame us, talk to the venue manager.

It is important that you are aware that being caught blocking any fire exit at a venue during an event carries a £1000 fine.