Hearing Conservation and Hearing Protection is achieved through preventative measures. To reduce occupational hearing loss, all employees, who work in potentially noisy areas, are provided hearing protection, training and annual hearing tests. OSHA hearing conservation standard is covered in 29 CFR 1910.95. Engineering controls are applied to reduce noise from equipment and operations.
After engineering controls are evaluated for effectiveness or feasibility, administrative controls should be considered to reduce noise exposure. Administrative controls include restricting exposure time or using personal protective equipment.
Personal Protective Equipment, such as ear plugs or muffs, may be used to reduce the amount of noise exposure. Each plug or muff has a noise reductions factor (NR) as evaluated by ANSI Standards (S3.19 – 1974 or Z24.22 – 1957). For example, if a work area has an ambient noise exposure of 96 dB(A), the hearing protectors should be rated 6 NR or better to be effective.
According to OSHA Regulations, each location with noise exposures of 85 to 89 dB(A) will provide hearing protectors for the Employee’s optional use. Noise exposures at 90 dB(A) or above require the mandatory use of hearing protection. Further, OSHA requires that a variety of hearing protectors be available for Employees to choose (both a variety of plug and muff type hearing protectors).
Types of Hearing Protection
Hearing protection devices are the first line of defense against noise in environments where engineering controls have not reduced employee exposure to safe levels. Hearing protective devices can prevent significant hearing loss, but only if they are used properly. The most popular hearing protection devices are earplugs which are inserted into the ear canal to provide a seal against the canal walls. Earmuffs enclose the entire external ears inside rigid cups. The inside of the muff cup is lined with acoustic foam and the perimeter of the cup is fitted with a cushion that seals against the head around the ear by the force of the headband.
Use of Hearing Protectors
Management, Supervision and Employees shall properly wear the prescribed hearing protectors while working in or traveling through any section of a Location that is designated a High Noise Area. (excluding offices, break rooms, and rest facilities). The following rules will be enforced:
• Personal stereos, such as Walkmans, etc., will not be permitted in any operating area of company property.
• Hearing protectors, at least two types of plugs and one type of muffs, will be provided and maintained by Company
• Hearing protectors and replacements will be provided free of charge
• Hearing protectors will be properly worn at all times, except in offices, break rooms, rest facilities.
