Your ears are often the victim of noise and sounds that can impact your hearing. Therefore, when it comes to hearing protection, especially when working on a loud job site, it is important to always prioritize safety and ensure proper measures are taken to protect your ears. Today, let’s chat about some tips about hearing protection equipment.
Be prepared
First, and foremost, all workers should have the proper hearing protection equipment. Not wearing the right equipment can greatly damage your hearing. Make sure to invest in high quality earplugs or earmuffs, which are designed for noise reduction. Always ensure equipment fits properly, and to get maximum effectiveness, look for products with a high noise reduction rating. The Government of Canada states that: “If your noise exposure level varies between 84 and 87 dBA, the qualified person must determine whether or not you should use hearing protectors.”
Along with wearing the appropriate hearing protection equipment, you also want to follow regulations and guidelines. Compliance is key to a safe working environment, so understanding regulations and industry guidelines will ensure that all workers are well protected.
Be consistent
It is important to wear your hearing protection consistently. Lead by example, and ensure you are setting the right safety practices for your workers. Help make wearing the right equipment a habit, and wear these at all times when you will be exposed to high noise levels. Even short-term exposure can cause damage, so it is key to be aware and educated on safe noise levels in the workplace or on a job site. Whenever possible, limit exposure to high noise levels by taking breaks and rotate job tasks to help minimize risk.
Be diligent
To ensure your hearing protection equipment is working optimally, you should regularly inspect your devices for signs of damage or wear and tear. Equipment needs to be replaced as needed, and following the manufacturer’s recommendations for proper maintenance will ensure workers are being protected.
Be educated
By educating yourself, and others, you will have a better understanding of the risks associated with excessive noise exposure. Therefore, encourage a culture where everyone understands the importance of wearing proper protective hearing equipment.
Along with the above-mentioned safety tips, it is also crucial that hearing protection devices fit properly. So, keep these in mind to help with the best fit for your ears, which will also ensure the best protection for your hearing:
For earplugs
- Roll earplug between your fingers to compress it.
- Pull your ear slightly upward and outward to straighten the ear canal.
- Insert the compressed earplug gently into the ear canal.
- Allow the earplug to expand fully, filling the ear canal completely.
- Check if the earplug creates a seal and feels snug but comfortable.
- If the earplug doesn’t fit properly, remove it and try again.
For earmuffs
- Adjust the headband for a comfortable fit, ensuring that it fits securely.
- Put earmuffs over each ear, so they cover the entire ear, sealing tightly.
- Make sure the earmuffs don’t interfere with the correct positioning of safety helmets or other required protective equipment.
- Ensure the cushions, or seals, are in good condition and properly aligned with your ears.
It’s important to remember that every individual’s ears are different. Therefore, finding the right hearing protection suited for the worker is key.
Hearing loss, in most cases, is irreversible. So, be sure to take proper care of your ears, and always prioritize the safety of hearing protection equipment.