Hearing Protection
29 CFR 1910.95
Hearing Protection
Exposure to high levels of noise causes hearing loss and may cause other harmful health effects as well. The extent of damage depends primarily on the intensity of the noise and the duration of exposure.
Hearing Loss
Noise-induced hearing loss can be temporary or permanent. Temporary hearing loss, also called temporary threshold shift (the hearing threshold is that level of sound that a person can just barely hear), results from short-term exposure to noise, with normal hearing returning after a period of rest.
Generally, prolonged exposure to high noise levels over a period of time causes permanent damage. Therefore, a person who regularly sustains a temporary loss or shift in hearing threshold will eventually suffer permanent hearing loss or noise induced permanent threshold shift (NIPTS). NIPTS occurs very gradually over time. On fact, for a long time the worker may not notice any change in hearing.When the hearing loss begins to interfere with everyday communication, by then it is too late to do anything about the hearing loss that has occurred.
Engineering Controls
Engineering or administrative measures, such as the following are always the first step in reducing worker exposure to noise.
- Set up noisy machinery in a separate area, away from as many workers as possible.
- Place machinery on rubber mountings to reduce vibration.
- Use sound absorbing acoustical tiles and blankets on floors, walls and ceilings.
- Arrange work schedules to cut down on the time each worker spends in a noisy area.
Many machines currently meet noise specifications because manufacturers have responded to the need to cut noise. However, some equipment, like saws and punch presses, cannot be made to run any quieter so proper hearing protection is required.
Selecting Hearing Protection
Some of the factors you should take into consideration when selecting the right hearing protection devices (HPDs) include:
- Noise Hazard—how much noise will workers be dealing with?
- Noise frequency—is the hazard continuous or intermittent?
- Fit and Comfort—protective devices must fit properly and be comfortable to wear.
- Noise Reduction Rating (NRR)—using the proper protection level for the hazard.
Employee Training
Training requirements are found at:
- 1910.95(k)—Training program
- 1910.95(l)—Access to information and training materials
- 1910.95(i)(4)—The employer shall provide training in the use and care of all hearing protectors provided to employees.
Training Tips
- Review 29 CFR 1910.95—Occupational Noise Exposure
- Using the employee handout, review the training requirements in 1910.95.
- Discuss the causes of occupational noise exposure and review how employees can protect themselves.
- Review the use of appropriate hearing protection and how to care for it.
For more information see
- 1910.95(k)—Training program
- 1910.95(l)—Access to information and training materials
- 1910.95(i)(4)—The employer shall provide training in the use and care of all hearing protectors provided to employees.
Hearing Protection Handout
Noise is recognized by OSHA as a preventable cause of temporary or permanent hearing loss, stress and other physical problems.
Noise is sound measured by its frequency (high or low pitch) and its intensity (loudness measured in decibels-dB). High frequencies are most damaging. Workers may not be exposed to more than an average of 85 dB over an 8hour period without hearing protection being provided.
Hearing Protection Devices
Hearing protection devices (HPDs) do not block out sound completely, but they provide some protection by reducing the amount of sound reaching your ear. At the same time, you will be able to hear speech and important machinery sounds.
Providing Hearing Protection
Hearing protection must be provided by your employer, but only after your employer assesses the noise in the workplace and attempts to reduce that noise level using engineering and administrative changes. If there is still a hazardous noise level remaining, then HPDs are required.
HPDs can be of several types including earplugs, canal caps or earmuffs.
What Must the Employee Do?
You are ultimately responsible for protecting your own hearing. Here are a few points to remember when it comes to protecting your sense of hearing:
- Make sure earplugs fit properly.
- Have an annual hearing test.
- Keep HPDs in good condition. Replace as necessary.
- Wear HPDs as prescribed by the manufacturer.
- Install them correctly.
Hearing Protection Sign–Off Sheet
The employees of ______Company Name______, have taken part in a training session on Hearing Protection. The session covered:
- Where the noise problems at my job are.
- The type of ear protection available to use.
- How to properly use hearing protection and take care of it.
Date of Training: / Facility:
Employee Signature / PRINT NAME
______
Supervisor’s Signature