The Importance of Hearing Protection in the Workplace

The Importance of Hearing Protection in the Workplace

Hearing protection is vital in workplaces where loud noises from machinery are unavoidable and noise cannot be controlled to safe levels.

While steps should be taken to minimise noise levels as much as possible, extra protection may still be needed. Hearing or ear protection should not be used as an alternative to controlling noise in organisations. It is necessary when noise levels cannot be lowered to safe levels.

This may be because of the type of machinery used or the work's setting. Hearing protection can limit users' exposure to loud noises, reducing the likelihood of hearing loss and other hearing issues in future.

 

Control of Noise at Work Regulations 2005

The regulations, published in the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974, around noise aim to ensure that workers' hearing is protected from excessive noise in their place of work.

Employers have duties by law under these regulations to:

• Assess the risks of noise to employees
• Take action to minimise these risks and reduce exposure
• Provide employees with hearing protection
• Ensure legal limits on noise are not exceeded
• Provide employees with education and training about noise
• Continually carry out surveillance in the workplace regarding health and safety

 

Noise levels

Lower exposure action values:

• daily or weekly exposure of 80 dB(A)
• peak sound pressure of 135 dB(C)

Upper exposure action values:

• daily or weekly exposure of 85 dB(A)
• peak sound pressure of 137 dB(C)

Exposure limit values:

• daily or weekly exposure of 87 dB(A)
• peak sound pressure of 140 dB(C)

 

Why is controlling noise so important?

Hearing is incredibly sensitive and fragile, so high exposure levels can cause damage. Once damaged, hearing can't ever be fixed.

Noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) is a permanent, progressive condition with a profound impact on quality of life. Yet, it is entirely preventable. NIHL and associated tinnitus can cause sleep loss, anxiety, depression, social isolation, strain in relationships, long-term stress, and emotional exhaustion.

In 2019, the Health and Safety Executive revealed that the economic burden of disabling hearing loss cost the UK £25.5 billion annually in lost productivity and quality of life.

Hearing protection reduces the noise energy reaching the inner ear, reducing the risk of damage. Noise exposure is the most common reason for hearing loss in later life. Low-hazard noises should also be considered and catered for, especially when long-term exposure is required.

 

How to control risks from noise

Employers should look to alternative processes if the upper exposure limits are likely to be exceeded. This may involve different equipment and/or working methods to make work quieter and expose people to less time.

Identify how noise could be reduced and what is practical to follow. A timetable should be in place, identifying risks until the issue is solved and who is affected.

Choosing quieter tools, whether bought or hired, can ensure all tools used are below a certain level. This may involve swapping petrol tools for battery tools, for instance. Low-vibration tools can also be used, and enclosures around machines can reduce the noise levels emitted to the environment.

 

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Machinery can also be kept away from designated quiet areas, and noise-dampening materials could be used within the building.

Once a plan is implemented, it needs to be monitored for effectiveness and to ensure it is followed by all on-site workers. Regular machinery maintenance is also required, as deterioration can lead to louder machinery.

 

Which industries could benefit from hearing protection?

Hearing protection isn't just required in a few industries or fields. It is beneficial anywhere where machinery and loud tools are used.

This includes building sites, airports and railways, highways, and welding. Manufacturing industries will also need noise reduction and hearing protection, as will jobs such as forestry when working with chainsaws and similar tools.

Those who use power tools within their work, from leaf blowers and hedge trimmers to chainsaws and plate compactors, also need to wear ear protection. This includes if you are a DIYer doing your own tasks and jobs around the house.

Petrol tools can be louder than their electric counterparts, so the level of protection needed can depend on what tools are being used. Cordless power tools do tend to emit the least noise. Tools will often have noise level information provided.

 

Types of Hearing Protection

There are generally two types of hearing protection, ear plugs and ear defenders. The former is inserted into the ear, and the latter is similar to over-the-head headphones or earmuffs.

Ear defenders are suitable for all types of work, indoor and outdoor, and in all weather. They're a more hygienic option, protecting the ears from dust, debris, or anything on your hands. Most work with other PPE, such as visors and head protection.

Both earplugs and defenders can be used simultaneously if required under high-noise circumstances. Ear defenders should be available at all times if required on site.

 

How to choose the correct workplace hearing protection

To minimise the effect of noise on workers, it is essential to factor in a few different conditions before selecting the proper ear protection.

Protection that reduces levels below 70 dB should be avoided, as it can limit the ability to hear warning signals and communicate. If working in an environment where hearing protection is always worn, bear in mind the ability to communicate warnings and issues non-audibly, too. Workers should never be exposed to a Limit Value of 87dB(A)

1. Measure noise levels

A noise risk assessment is vital to understand how much the noise needs to be reduced and how much protection is required.

Without this, kits with too little or too much protection may be chosen.

2. Determine noise reduction requirements

If noise reduction is required, this should primarily come from the noise source. Can different tools be used, or sound protection built to reduce the sound levels in the rest of the building?

Once determined and the requirements are in place, noise levels must be re-measured. If it is still above safe levels and no more can be done, ear protection is needed.

Noise levels should ideally be reduced to between 70dB(A) and 75dB(A) with the addition of ear protection.

3. Offer ear protection to workers

Once you've determined the protection levels required, workers should be offered a choice of ear protection. They may be more comfortable with earplugs than ear defenders, especially if they get sweaty or uncomfortable with defenders in their role.

Usually, both provide equal levels of protection, so it is a matter of preference. Do bear in mind hygiene, though. Ear defenders will keep ears free from dust and dirt, and can be reused.

4. Train workers on ear protection

Now, workers need to understand why hearing protection is so important. They should understand safe exposure levels and times and the importance of keeping ear protection on while working.

Training on care and cleanliness of hearing protection should also be given. Remind workers that hearing protection is needed, and ensure signage is present around the work area.

 

Where can I buy ear defenders?

We don't just offer tool and equipment hire—PPE and consumables, including ear defenders, can be purchased from Speedy Hire.

We have a range of PPE and health and safety equipment for purchase alongside your hire equipment. Whatever your needs, Speedy has you covered.