Reviews the requirements of the draft noise regulations due to come into force early 2006. The Control of Noise at Work Regulations 2005 will implement the physical agents (noise) directive 2003" (Directive 2003/10/EC). They are expected to come into force by 15 February 2006. They are designed to stop people exposed to noise at work from damaging their hearing and to protect against the health and safety risks that result when instructions or warnings cannot be heard. Points out that the number of workers who will be covered by the regulations will double and the limits of exposure will lower. Advises carrying out risk assessments and acting on the findings. Suggests the setting up of hearing protection zones, where access is strictly restricted. Concludes that the new regulations may limit the health and safety risks of noise exposure at work, but monitoring of the results needs to be carried out.