1.7.4.2(1)(u) · Airborne noise emissions

What it requires

1.7.4.2(1)(u) of Regulation (EU) 2023/1230 requires: airborne noise values (LpA at workstations, LpCpeak, LWA) with uncertainty and measurement conditions. It is unchanged in substance compared with Directive 2006/42/EC and applies to machinery placed on the market from 20 January 2027.

What the instruction manual must reflect

Airborne noise emission values (LpA at workstations, LpCpeak and LWA where applicable), with their uncertainty and measurement conditions.

Official text

the following information on airborne noise emissions: (i) the A-weighted emission sound pressure level at workstations, where this exceeds 70 dB (A); where this level does not exceed 70 dB (A), this fact shall be indicated; (ii) the peak C-weighted instantaneous sound pressure value at workstations, where this exceeds 63 Pa (130 dB in relation to 20 μPa); (iii) the A-weighted sound power level emitted by the machinery or related product, where the A-weighted emission sound pressure level at workstations exceeds 80 dB (A). These values shall be either those actually measured for the machinery or related product in question or those established on the basis of measurements taken for technically comparable machinery or for a technically comparable related product, which is representative of the machinery or related product to be produced. In the case of very large machinery or a related product, instead of the A-weighted sound power level, the A-weighted emission sound pressure levels at specified positions around the machinery or related product may be indicated. Where the harmonised standards or common specifications adopted by the Commission in accordance with Article 20(3) cannot be applied, sound levels shall be measured using the most appropriate method for the machinery or related product. Whenever sound emission values are indicated, the uncertainties surrounding these values shall be specified. The operating conditions of the machinery or related product during measurement and the measuring methods used shall be described. Where the workstation(s) are undefined or cannot be defined, A-weighted sound pressure levels shall be measured at a distance of 1 m from the surface of the machinery or related product and at a height of 1,6 m from the floor or access platform. The position and value of the maximum sound pressure shall be indicated. With respect to noise reduction machinery or related products, the instructions for use shall specify, where appropriate, how to correctly assemble and install that equipment (see also section 1.7.4.2(1), point (j)). Where specific Union legal acts lay down other requirements for the measurement of sound pressure levels or sound power levels, those legal acts shall be applied and the corresponding provisions of this section shall not apply;

Source: Regulation (EU) 2023/1230, OJ L 165, 29.6.2023, Annex III, 1.7.4.2(1)(u). The sections ‘What it requires’ and ‘What the instruction manual must reflect’ are our own summary and do not replace the official text.