The European Agency for Safety and Health at Work has launched a Europe-wide campaign to tackle one of Europe’s most persistent workplace health problems - noise at work

The figures show that noise at work is still a serious but often underestimated threat to millions of European workers. According to the Agency, noise-induced hearing loss has been recognized as "the most prevalent, irreversible industrial disease". But actually noise at work can cost you much more than your hearing! It can be a causal factor in accidents, contribute to work-related stress, and may act together with other workplace hazards to cause ill health.

The campaign has been launched in more than 30 countries throughout the Europe. Backed by the European Parliament, Commission and Luxembourg European Union Presidency, the campaign, with its slogan "Stop that noise!" and the tagline "Noise at work – It can cost you more than your hearing", will culminate in the annual European Week for Safety and Health at Work on 24-28 October 2005.

The campaign, which will be underpinned by a range of printed and on-line information, including examples of good practice, will be supported by thousands of events in 31 European countries, including Member States, as well as candidate and EFTA countries. Coordinated by the Agency’s network of National Focal Points, events will range from training initiatives and promotional campaigns to seminars and workshops. In addition, businesses and occupational safety organizations will be invited to sign an on-line campaign charter to demonstrate their commitment to more effective noise management.

More information can be found at the Agency’s European Week 2005 Web site.