Happy Ears: Brussels venues told to turn the noise down

New noise limits for Brussels nightclubs, bars and concert venues will come into force from 21 February as part of a new public health campaign called "Happy Ears".

Most venues will have to keep noise levels below 85 decibels. Nightclubs and bars specialising in music are allowed up to 95dB and concert halls 100dB - which is the maximum safe limit set by the World Health Organisation.

Any venue playing music between 85 and 100 decibels must display the real-time noise levels on a screen and provide a quiet area for people to rest their ears.

According to Brussels environment minister Céline Fremault, nine out of 10 young adults have experienced temporary ringing in the ears after exposure to loud music - and 15% have permanent hearing damage.