Advanced Hearing Protection PPE: A Deeper Dive

Advanced Hearing Protection PPE: A Deeper Dive

Key Takeaways

When assessing noise exposure for workers using hearing protectors, it’s crucial to adjust the PPE's Noise Reduction Rating (NRR) to account for real-world factors.

Hearing loss, a prevalent yet under-discussed safety issue, affects countless workplaces. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that approximately 22 million Americans are exposed to hazardous noise levels at work. Moreover, the Hearing Loss Association of America reports that out of 48 million Americans with hearing loss, about 60% have experienced noise exposure in work or educational settings.

Beyond the personal toll on workers' health, noise exposure incurs significant costs. The Department of Labor estimates that workers' compensation for hearing loss costs around $242 million annually, with the broader economic impact potentially reaching $18 billion. This figure reflects unrealized federal income taxes due to reduced earning potential; individuals with unaided hearing loss earn on average $20,000 less annually than those with hearing aids.

Effective noise-induced hearing loss protection requires multiple interventions. While engineering and administrative controls—such as quieter machinery and noise exposure scheduling—are essential, completely eliminating hazardous noise is often impractical. Here, hearing protection PPE plays a vital role, providing direct defense against environmental noise.

This article will explore relevant legislation and standards governing hearing protection PPE in the workplace, guide you on selecting the right PPE for various tasks, and address frequently overlooked aspects of hearing protection to enhance worker safety.

Legislation

The General Duty Clause of the Occupational Safety and Health Act mandates employers to provide a safe work environment free from recognized hazards that could cause serious harm or death (Section 5(a)(1)).

The OSHA standard 1910.95, Occupational Noise Exposure, specifically addresses noise-related issues and requires:

Implementation of a hearing conservation program when employee noise exposures reach an 8-hour time-weighted average sound level (TWA) of 85 decibels.

Establishment of a monitoring program for employees under these conditions.

Provision of an audiometric testing program at no cost to employees.

Supply of appropriate hearing protectors based on noise intensity and task requirements, including ensuring proper initial fitting and ongoing supervision.

In construction, the standards 29 CFR 1926, particularly 1926.52 and 1926.101, apply.

While 1910.95 outlines minimum requirements, there are 28 OSHA-approved State Plans that exceed these standards. Other federal regulations include:

40 CFR 211: Product Noise Labeling – EPA

49 CFR 227: Occupational Noise Exposure for Railroad Employees – FRA

30 CFR 62: Occupational Noise Exposure – MSHA

NIOSH Recommendations: Noise Control

U.S. Coast Guard: Noise Control Recommendations

DoD Hearing Conservation Program: Department of Defense

49 CFR 393.94: Interior Noise Levels – DOT

Choosing the Right Hearing Protection

As outlined in 1910.95, employee input is crucial in selecting hearing protection. With various options available, it’s essential to choose protection that effectively reduces noise levels below the 85 dB threshold.

The Noise Reduction Rating (NRR) is a key factor in determining how much noise a hearing protection device will block. Generally, earplugs offer higher protection than earmuffs, with earplugs reaching up to an NRR of 33 and earmuffs up to 31. Combining earplugs with earmuffs can achieve an NRR of 36.

Calculating the effective noise reduction involves de-rating the NRR to account for fit and other real-world factors. For example, if workplace noise is 95 dB and earplugs have an NRR of 25, the effective reduction is calculated as follows:

De-rate the NRR: (25 - 7) / 2 = 9

Effective noise level: 95 - 9 = 86 dB

When using dual protection (earplugs and earmuffs), add 5 to the higher NRR for combined protection. For example, with earplugs at NRR 31 and earmuffs at NRR 27:

Combined NRR: 31 + 5 = 36

De-rated NRR: (36 - 7) / 2 = 14

Effective noise level: 95 - 14 = 81 dB

When selecting hearing protection, consider factors such as ease of use, potential for interference with equipment, comfort, and personal preferences.

Types of Hearing Protection:

• Expandable Foam Plugs

1. Pros: Affordable, widely available, fits most people
2. Cons: May cause discomfort for some, prone to contamination when removed

• Pre-molded Reusable Plugs

1. Pros: Reusable, available in various sizes, washable, no contamination risk
2. Cons: Higher cost compared to foam plugs

• Canal Caps

1. Pros: Quick to use, generally more noise-blocking
2. Cons: May be uncomfortable and prone to snagging

• Earmuffs

1. Pros: Comfortable, easy to wear, may include noise-cancelling features
2. Cons: Can be hot and heavy, may interfere with glasses and sideburns

Monitoring and Maintenance

According to 1910.95(d)(3), re-evaluate noise levels whenever there are changes in production, process, equipment, or controls. Use discretion to ensure monitoring when noise levels are potentially affected.

Common Misconceptions

• NRR Calculation: Always de-rate the NRR to avoid under-protection.
• Overprotection Risks: Excessive protection can block critical ambient noise signals.
• Combining Protections: Dual protectors do not double the NRR; they add only 5.
• Training Needs: Proper training on using hearing protection is crucial.
• Continued Exposure: Hearing protection is necessary even for those with existing hearing loss.
• Other Causes of Hearing Loss: Consider factors beyond noise, such as pressure changes and smoking.
• Stigma: Ensure clear communication and understanding, as not all employees may openly discuss hearing difficulties.

Conclusion

Hearing loss is a prevalent, long-term disability in many workplaces. Although awareness is widespread, true understanding is often superficial. As hearing loss is irreversible, it’s critical to correctly select, use, and maintain hearing protection PPE to safeguard worker health.

Discover additional resources on hearing protection here.