Hearing protection is essential when noise exposures can’t be controlled at their source. Earplugs and earmuffs provide a physical barrier that reduces inner ear noise levels and helps to prevent hearing loss from occurring. The amount of protection you obtain depends on how well the protector forms a seal in or around your ear. Even a small leak can substantially reduce the effectiveness of the protector.
How can you tell if your workplace is too loud?
A basic rule of thumb is that if you have to raise your voice to talk to someone who is an arm’s length away, then the noise is likely to be hazardous. The best way to ensure that you are adequately protected is to have your work area evaluated for noise hazards
If you are interested in having your work area evaluated for noise hazards, please submit a request (insert link to the PPE Help Desk form).
What types of hearing protection are available?
There are many different styles, types, and brands of ear protectors available. For example, there are formable insert plugs, premolded plugs, custom molded plugs, semi-insert/canal caps, and ear muffs. For advantages and disadvantages of these types of hearing protectors, click here.
How can you tell if your hearing protection fits well and is sufficiently protective for your work area or task?
You can get your hearing protectors fit tested! This is the best way to know if your hearing protectors fit properly and are protecting you from hazardous noise. EHS has quantitative fit testing equipment to individually fit test employees with ear plugs and or ear muffs. After all, the best hearing protector for you is one that fits correctly so that you can wear it properly.
If you are interested in scheduling a fit test, please submit a request (insert link to the PPE Help Desk form).
You can also click here to watch a video demonstration of proper ear plug insertion techniques.
Want more information on specific types of hearing protectors?
The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health has more detailed information on hearing protectors, available here.
If you are purchasing hearing protection for the first time, would like purchasing advice, and/or are concerned about exposure to noise in your workplace, contact EHS to request (insert link to PPE help form) a site evaluation. You can also contact your EHS Division Liaison or Health and Safety Rep for assistance in selecting hearing protection. For a list of EHS Division Liaisons and Health and Safety Reps, click here.
Once the appropriate hearing protection device has been determined, it can be purchased through eBuy.
Couldn’t find what you are looking for?
Click HERE to submit a request for more help with hearing protection. You can also contact the Noise/Hearing Conservation Program Administrator. Click here for contact information.
