Many Industries & Construction business are overexposed to noise.
In time, overexposure permanently damages our ability to hear. Older workers can start to feel lonely and frustrated as hearing loss over the years makes it tough to communicate with family and friends.
We can slow down or stop hearing loss by taking precautions.
Noise is generally measured in dB(A).
You should wear hearing protection if you’re exposed to average daily noise levels of more than 85 dBA. Most power tools and equipment used in construction operate well over this level.
Since it’s difficult to reduce noise levels on site, the next best choice is hearing protection.
There are two main types: muffs and plugs.
MUFFS:
- Muffs are useful for intermittent noisy work because they are quick and easy to put on and take off.
- Muffs don’t last forever. Protection and comfort decrease over time.
- Muff cushions must be replaced every year.
- Tension in the headband needs to be just right. Too loose... they don’t give you enough protection. Too tight... they’re uncomfortable.
PLUGS:
- Plugs are light and comfortable for most users. But they have to be put in properly to work right. And your hands have to be clean to insert or remove them.
- Contaminated earplugs can irritate or infect your ears.
- Plugs come in disposable and permanent types.Disposables are to be used once and once only.
It’s important to know that overexposure to noise doesn’t necessarily take a long time. Short periods of very high noise can cause overexposure.
For example, working for only 15 minutes with a gas powered quick-cut saw will lead to overexposure for that day.
Important
Review any special requirements for hearing protection on the site. Determine what types of protection are being worn. Identify some tasks that require hearing protection on the project. Demonstrate how to fit plugs.
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