1. What is it for?
Noise can be irritating. If it is loud or prolonged it could also damage your hearing, temporarily or permanently. The best way to reduce the risk of damage to your hearing is by eliminating or reducing the noise level at source.
As this is not always possible, various types of hearing protection are available. These are designed to reduce the amount of noise to a level which will not damage your hearing.
2. What types are available?
- Ear plugs: There are several types, which are designed to be inserted into the ear canal;
- disposable wax-impregnated cotton-wool plugs;
- disposable rubber or sponge plugs;
- or re-usable ear plugs which can be washed after use. The re-usable variety can be supplied with a chin/over-head strap if required.
- Ear defenders: These are hard cups with soft cushion seals which are designed to fit over the ears. They are connected by a headband, which maintains a firm fit against the ears, or can be attached to a safety helmet if required. The seals contain liquid or plastic foam which reduces the level of noise, but still allows you to hear normal conversation.
3. What are its limitations?
- Ear plugs are designed for only short-term use, e.g. half an hour (they can be used for longer for protection against lower levels of noise). For very high noise levels, e.g. from jet engines, ear defenders must be used. Some people find ear plugs uncomfortable, and they can increase the risk of ear infection if they are not kept scrupulously clean.
- Ear defenders sometimes become uncomfortable in hot working environments and will only reduce the noise level — not eliminate it. You must make sure they fit correctly, with the seals fully in contact with the side of your head.
4. Where must hearing protection be worn?
You should wear hearing protection wherever you are likely to come up against loud noise while you work. The most obvious area is on airport tarmac, where even brief exposure to the sound of a jet engine can lead to prolonged or irreversible damage to hearing. Prolonged exposure to moderate noise levels may also cause permanent damage.
Under health and safety legislation, certain areas are designated as ‘ear defender zones’. The sign shown
here will be displayed wherever hearing protection is mandatory.
5. How do I look after it?
- Ear plugs: Keep re-usable ear plugs in a cool, clean place. After use wash them with a mild detergent and wipe them periodically with a mild disinfectant solution. On no account should you leave them to soak. You should visually inspect ear plugs before you use them to make sure there are no signs of wear or tear.
- Ear defenders: Inspect these regularly to make sure they are not damaged and have not deteriorated. If damaged, ear defenders filled with liquid are likely to leak. Do not bend the headband as it can reduce the effectiveness of the ear defenders. Wipe them periodically with a mild disinfectant solution and store them in clean conditions when not in use.
