WORKERS at Wychavon District Council are being encouraged to keep the noise down to protect their health.

As part of the European week for health and safety at work the council is focussing on noise ahead of new legislation which comes into force next April.

Commercial services manager Debbie Herbert said: "Each year an estimated 170,000 people in the UK suffer deafness, tinnitus or other ear conditions as a result of excessive noise at work.

"The effects build up over time and you may not notice the problem until it is too late - and deafness is not reversible. Excessive noise can also lead to stress, an increased risk of accidents and damage to the unborn child."

Anyone who thinks their workplace is to noisy can contact the health and safety team at the council on 01386 565015, or call the HSE advice line on 0845 3450055 for advice.