02 Mar Hearing Protection Devices

Hearing Protection Devices

Hearing protection devices (HPDs), including earplugs and earmuffs, can effectively reduce exposure to hazardous workplace noise. However, hearing protection provides its intended protection only when it is properly selected, fitted, worn, and maintained.

The appropriate hearing protector should be selected based on the employee’s noise exposure, required noise reduction, comfort, compatibility with other personal protective equipment (PPE), and the employee’s ability to obtain a proper fit.

Common Types of Hearing Protection

Several types of hearing protection devices are commonly used:

• Formable foam earplugs – Made of expandable foam that is compressed before insertion and expands to fit the ear canal.
• Premolded earplugs – Made from flexible materials and available in different sizes and designs. Each ear should be properly fitted because ear canal sizes may differ.
• Canal caps or semi-insert devices – Flexible tips attached to a lightweight headband. These may be convenient for intermittent noise exposure because they can be quickly put on and removed.
• Earmuffs – Rigid cups with cushioned seals that completely cover the ears. The cushions must maintain a proper seal against the head to provide effective protection.

In high-noise environments, dual hearing protection, consisting of properly fitted earplugs and earmuffs worn together, may be required.

Properly Fitting Foam Earplugs

Foam earplugs must be compressed before insertion and allowed to expand inside the ear canal. An earplug that is only partially inserted may provide significantly less protection than intended.

To properly fit a formable foam earplug:

1. Roll – With clean hands, slowly roll and compress the entire foam earplug into a small, smooth cylinder. Do not simply squeeze the end.
2. Pull – Reach over your head with the opposite hand and gently pull the top of the ear upward and outward to straighten the ear canal.
3. Insert – Insert the compressed earplug well into the ear canal.
4. Hold – Keep a fingertip against the end of the earplug while it expands, typically for approximately 20–30 seconds or as directed by the manufacturer.
5. Check the fit – When properly inserted, most of the foam earplug should be inside the ear canal. If a large portion of the plug remains visible outside the ear, it may not be inserted deeply enough.
6. Perform a fit check – Cup your hands firmly over your ears and then remove them. If the earplugs are properly fitted, there should be little difference in the perceived noise level when your hands are placed over the ears.

Never force an earplug into the ear or insert dirty or contaminated plugs.

Using Earmuffs Properly

Earmuffs must completely surround the ears and form a continuous seal against the head.

Before use:

• Adjust the headband so the cushions fit securely around both ears.
• Make sure hair does not interfere with the seal.
• Avoid placing hats, hood strings, pencils, jewelry, or other objects between the cushion and the head.
• Be aware that the temples of safety glasses can interfere with the earmuff seal.
• Inspect cushions for cracks, deterioration, stiffness, or damage.
• Replace worn cushions or damaged earmuffs as necessary.

Do not stretch, modify, or otherwise alter earmuffs to reduce pressure or make them feel looser.

Care and Maintenance

Hearing protection should be kept clean and in good condition.

• Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning reusable earplugs and earmuffs.
• Replace disposable foam earplugs when they become dirty, damaged, or no longer expand properly.
• Do not share reusable earplugs unless they have been properly cleaned and disinfected.
• Store HPDs in a clean, dry location away from contaminants.
• Inspect hearing protection regularly and replace damaged or deteriorated components.

Getting the Protection You Need

The Noise Reduction Rating (NRR) printed on hearing protection packaging should not be assumed to represent the actual protection an employee receives in the workplace. Actual protection depends heavily on proper selection and fit.

Employees should receive instruction on how to properly insert, wear, inspect, and care for their assigned hearing protection. Where required, the employer must evaluate whether the selected HPD provides adequate attenuation for the employee’s specific noise exposure.

If hearing protection is uncomfortable or cannot be fitted properly, do not modify it. Notify your supervisor so another suitable size, type, or style can be selected.

Remember

Simply wearing earplugs or earmuffs does not guarantee adequate protection. Select the right hearing protector, fit it correctly, check the seal, and wear it for the entire duration of hazardous noise exposure.