Hearing loss due to industrial noise is one of the most widespread, yet preventable work place injures. Continual exposure to noise from machinery, tools, traffic and general workplace activity can cause significant, irreversible hearing loss.

Hearing loss has a dramatic impact on quality of life and may contribute to other safety problems, such as lack of awareness and reduced concentration. Correctly designed and fitted ear protection will keep industrial noise below harmful levels. The choice of the appropriate protection device for each job is also vitally important.

HOW DOES HEARING LOSS OCCUR ?

Permanent loss of hearing is the result of nerve destruction or damage to the hair cells which transfer sound waves within the ear. Once these important parts of the hearing mechanism are damaged or destroyed, they can never be regenerated, resulting in slight to total, permanent hearing loss.

HOW DO I CHOOSE MY HEARING PROTECTION ?

The choice of hearing protection depends on a number of factors including level of noise, comfort, and the suitability of the hearing protection for both the worker and the environment. Most importantly, the hearing protection should provide the desired noise reduction.

It is best, where protection must be used, to provide a choice of a number of different types of hearing protection. Each hearing protection device is given a class rating from 1 to 5 to show the level of noise reduction achieved.

If the noise exposure is intermittent, ear muffs are more desirable, since it may be inconvenient to remove and reinsert earplugs.

EAR MUFFS

Suppress unwanted noise by completely covering the outer ear, Our styles come with a variety of features from adjustable headband to hard hat attachments to suit individual needs.

DISPOSABLE PLUGS

A molded form polyurethane not washable but can fit perfectly in everybody’s ear canal. Corded and uncorded options are supplied in handy plastic packaging. Available in dispenser.

WHAT SHOULD I KNOW ABOUT THE FIT OF MY HEARING PROTECTION ?

Follow manufacturers’ instructions. With ear plugs, for example, the ear should be pulled outward and upward with the opposite hand to enlarge and straighten the ear canal, and insert the plug with cleand hands. Ensure the hearing protector tightly seals within the ear canal or against the side of the head. Hair and clothing should not be in the way.

WHAT ARE THE COMMON PROBLEMS OF HEARING PROTECTION ?

Studies have shown that one-half of the workers wearing hearing protectors receive one-half or less of the noise reduction potential of their protection because these devices are not worn continuously while in noise or because they do not fit properly.