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Tuesday, October 1, 2024

Make a Joyful Noise—But Not Too Loud!

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulates working conditions for millions of employees nationwide. The federal agency addresses many types of situations, including loud work environments.

OSHA’s activities, coupled with some court cases brought over the years against employers by people who experienced hearing losses, got Church Law & Tax co-founder Richard Hammar to thinking: Could a church ever be held liable by someone hurt by loud worship music?

It may sound far-fetched (pun intended).

But Hammar’s analysis shows why church leaders are wise to examine this topic.

Potential legal liability exists. Just as importantly, from a ministry perspective, the health, safety, and well-being of staff, volunteers, and attenders looms large.

He looks at court cases, OSHA, and even assesses the viability of worker’s compensation claims, then offers practical ways your church can reduce the effects of excessive noise on its people—as well as limit regulatory and legal liabilities it could face.

The Lord bless you and keep you,

Matthew Branaugh, Business Owner

Church Law & Tax

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