They matter because prolonged exposure to loud noise can cause permanent hearing loss. Large numbers of people working in the music and entertainment industry already have permanent hearing damage due to loud music.
Hearing loss tends to occur gradually over time, so people aren't always aware of the problem until it is too late.
Young people are just as affected by hearing damage as older people.
As well as hearing loss, over-exposure to loud noise can cause tinnitus. This is a ringing, whistling, buzzing or humming noise, heard in the ears or in the head. Tinnitus can be a distressing condition, which can cause disturbed sleep, anxiety and depression.
Find out more about types of hearing damage.
We know that it can be hard to keep up with all the rules and regulations in the music and entertainment sector. But don't panic! The new Noise at work regulations don't have to mean turning the music down. There are lots of quick and easy steps that you can take to protect your staff.
To help, we have produced simple and straightforward guidance on the Noise at work regulations. Our Noise at work explained leaflet explains your responsibilities under the regs, and provides advice on how you can take action to protect your staff.
As a first step, carry out this simple listening test. Talk to someone who is two metres away. If you have to raise your voice, then noise levels are probably over 85db. If noise is this high for at least a couple of hours every day, your staff are at risk. This means that you have a legal duty under the Noise at work regulations to take action.
For more information on earplugs, see our Earplug myth-buster.
Comprehensive advice on the Noise at work regulations can be found at the Sound Advice website. Sound Advice was produced by representatives of the music and entertainment industry, in collaboration with the Health and Safety Executive.
You can also get information from the environmental health department in your local authority.