The rules cap weekly average noise exposure at 85 decibels (at the workplace)

Seems to me like a very good idea. More than 85 db (unprotected) average during an eight hour shift will increase the threshold for hearing to a level that makes social interaction (talking in a pub, listening to music etc.) very difficult or impossible at the end of a decades-long exposure. If Britain had not yet a law about restricting the noise at the workplace she should be glad to be forced to do the sensible.

At the end of a lecture on workplace safety, I always list (tongue in cheek) the violations of workplace safety regulations by a rock band (to the picture of a very young Mr. Jagger):
- they work on a high place (stage) without the necessary handrails
- extender cables are lying around
- they work close to open electricity without the necessary danger labels
- they have no proper workplace safety training
- they work in a crowded place without clients being prevented from unsolicited physical contact
- it is too hot and too loud without protection
- they work under glare without sufficient protection for the eyes
etc.

Well, that's tongue in cheek, but the TIMES seems to be serious and is taken serious by people from the back of the woods.

If you read the law you'll see easily several reasons why piping is not affected by workplace safety regulations.

Wolfgang