Prior to the introduction of the Factories (Noise) Regulations, a series of publicity and promotional activities were organised in 1996 and 1997, to inform the industry of the impending legislation and to educate workers on the hazard of industrial noise. These included conferences and seminars, feature articles and programmes over the mass media.

In 1999, the National Trades Union Congress initiated a project on Hearing Conservation with the objective of reducing noise levels at work and protecting the hearing of employees. Initially, 15 engineering companies participated in the project. A Memorandum of Understanding was signed by the management of the participating companies and representatives from the union and the Manpower Ministry.