To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions whether an employer's duty of care includes taking account of the volume of music broadcast in the workplace; and if he will make a statement. (180372)

Employers do have a general duty of care to employees under civil law. The Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 also requires employers to protect the health, safety and welfare of employees so far as is reasonably practicable. This includes protection to hearing from workplace noise. The Control of Noise at Work Regulations 2005 and related guidance set out the duties and advice on controlling noise from music and other workplace noise. Section 3 of the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 sets out the general duties of employers covering members of the public.