How Employees Can Protect Their Hearing at Work

If you work in a noisy environment with loud music, live music, construction noise or even low but constant noise, your hearing could be at risk. Since we spend many of our waking hours at work, it can be more important to consider how loud it is and how this can impact our hearing in the long term. 

Noise-induced hearing loss is one of the most common issues that arise at work, and it is essential that you employ the following five ways to protect yourself. 

Hearing Protection for Workers

This information is helpful for both employees and employers, and noise control measures should be used in any environment where it is safe to do so. Noise control itself can be challenging to manage in many different industries. However, noise control measures can be vital in ensuring good hearing health. 

Earmuffs

Earmuffs are typically larger than earplugs and can block out sound entirely. They fit snugly to the head and create a tight seal around the ear. There are many different types of earmuffs on the market. Some of those include technology that uses AM/FM radio and Bluetooth to not impact the ability to communicate or listen to instructions. 

Cap-mounted earmuffs are compatible with hard hats, making them one of the most valuable options for construction workers. It is essential to keep in mind that earmuffs usually offer a lower noise reduction rating (NRR) than earplugs and are often recommended for those moving in and out of the noisy areas – not in it for long periods. 

Earplugs

Reusable or custom earplugs can be comfortably worn inside the ear canal and offer some of the highest NRR. There are several options when it comes to earplugs: 

• Corded earplugs can be disposable or reusable, and they have a cord to be able to hang them around the neck when they are not in use. 
• Disposable earplugs are typically made of foam and come in a tapered shape, so they are ideal for quickly being placed in the ear. The foam will easily shape the ear, so they are comfortable. 
• Reusable earplugs can be reused many times and always washed gently after use. 

Ear Canal Caps

An ear canal cap has a tension band that keeps the plugs over the ear canal. They are not inserted into the ear. While these are a great option, like earmuffs, they don’t offer the highest NRR. When the worker is in a warm environment, ear canal caps can be better than earmuffs. 

Noise Monitoring

While some noise is expected in most working environments, noise monitoring can help the employer to understand the actual risks. Any employees exposed to eight hours or more of noise above 85 decibels should have extra noise reduction methods in place. 

Eighty-five decibels is the same loudness as a food blender, a cinema or being in a car and sitting in heavy traffic. It is a lot lower in volume than many people assume. 

Training

One of the key things that employers can do for their employees is to offer training on how to use their hearing protection and why it is essential. Employees that have access to training and the proper hearing loss protection are less likely to take unnecessary risks. 

It is also crucial that employees know what to look out for regarding hearing loss indicators. 

If any of the below arise, they should immediately make an appointment to check their hearing: 

• Difficult hearing quiet noises, whispers, or the TV on low.
• Any complaints from friends or family about having to repeat themselves all the time.
• Ringing in the ears that no one else can hear.

The correct PPE should be given to all workers along with the training. Anywhere where the noise in the workplace is 85 decibels or higher, each of the workers should have access to earmuffs, earplugs or ear canal caps. 

Where the loudness is beyond 85 decibels, it is important to have ear protection with a higher NRR. 

There are also several controls that can be used in the building and surroundings. Depending on the industry, it may be possible to implement soundproofing, mufflers or the installation of acoustic barriers. Where possible, it can be beneficial to change when some things happen during shift changes to limit the number of people exposed to the noise. 

Getting your hearing tested regularly is essential, so book an appointment with Rocky Mountain Hearing & Balance at (801) 685-3456.