24 Jun Hearing Protection

Hearing Protection

Noise is unwanted sound that can interfere with communication, concentration, job performance, and safety. Excessive workplace noise can also cause permanent hearing loss. Because noise-induced hearing loss usually develops gradually, employees may not realize damage is occurring until it is irreversible.

When hazardous noise cannot be adequately eliminated or reduced through engineering or administrative controls, employees must use appropriate hearing protection.

Why Hearing Protection Matters

Repeated exposure to excessive noise damages sensitive structures within the inner ear. Warning signs that noise exposure may be excessive include:

• Having to raise your voice or shout to communicate with someone nearby.
• Ringing, buzzing, or roaring in the ears after work.
• Speech or other sounds seeming muffled after leaving a noisy area.
• Temporary difficulty hearing after a work shift.

These symptoms should not be ignored. Temporary changes in hearing can be a warning that continued exposure may eventually result in permanent hearing loss.

Types of Hearing Protection

Common hearing protection devices include:

• Earplugs – Inserted into the ear canal and available in disposable, reusable, and custom-molded designs.
• Earmuffs – Cover the entire outer ear and form a seal against the head.
• Dual hearing protection – Earplugs and earmuffs worn together when additional protection is necessary.

The appropriate protector depends on the noise level, work environment, compatibility with other PPE, and the amount of protection required.

Proper Fit Is Essential

Hearing protectors work by creating a barrier that reduces the amount of noise reaching the inner ear. Even a small break in the seal can substantially reduce protection.

Employees shall:

• Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for fitting hearing protection.
• Insert earplugs correctly and completely.
• Ensure earmuff cushions form a complete seal around the ears.
• Check the fit periodically throughout the workday.
• Reinsert earplugs if they become loose from talking, chewing, or movement.
• Keep hair, clothing, safety-glasses temples, or other items from interfering with earmuff seals.
• Replace damaged, hardened, worn, or contaminated hearing protectors.

Never alter, cut, stretch, or otherwise modify hearing protection to make it more comfortable.

Comfort and Selection

Hearing protection must be comfortable enough to be worn correctly and consistently. Employees should never modify a hearing protector or intentionally break its seal because it feels uncomfortable.

If a hearing protector does not fit properly or causes significant discomfort, notify your supervisor. Another size, type, or style may provide the required protection while fitting more comfortably.

The best hearing protector is one that:

• Provides adequate protection for the noise exposure.
• Fits correctly.
• Is compatible with other required PPE.
• Can be worn consistently throughout the exposure.

Different hearing protectors do not necessarily provide the same level of protection. Selection must be based on the amount of noise reduction needed and the device’s effectiveness when properly fitted.

Care and Maintenance

Keep hearing protection clean and sanitary.

• Wash reusable earplugs according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Never share reusable hearing protection unless it has been properly cleaned and disinfected.
• Inspect earmuff cushions and headbands for cracks, deterioration, or loss of tension.
• Store hearing protection in a clean, dry location.
• Replace disposable earplugs as necessary.
• Never use damaged or contaminated hearing protection.

Do Not Remove Protection in Noisy Areas

Hearing protection must be worn for the entire duration of hazardous noise exposure. Removing earplugs or earmuffs for even short periods can significantly reduce the overall protection received during the workday.

Move to a quieter area before removing hearing protection whenever possible.

Employees must also remain able to recognize alarms, warning signals, equipment movement, and other important workplace communications. Hearing protection should be selected and used in a manner that provides required noise reduction while allowing employees to perform their work safely.

Know When Protection Is Required

Do not rely solely on how loud an area seems. Workplace noise measurements and the company’s hearing conservation requirements determine when hearing protection is necessary.

Employees shall wear hearing protection:

• In areas designated as hearing-protection-required zones.
• When operating or working near equipment identified as producing hazardous noise.
• When required by the company’s Hearing Conservation Program.
• Whenever directed by a supervisor or required by the applicable task or hazard assessment.

Under OSHA general industry requirements, employees exposed to noise at or above an 8-hour time-weighted average of 85 dBA must be included in a Hearing Conservation Program.

Remember

Hearing loss from excessive workplace noise is preventable, but once hearing is permanently damaged, it cannot be restored. Wear the right hearing protection, fit it correctly, keep it in good condition, and wear it for the entire time you are exposed to hazardous noise.