Hearing Protection

Overview

Hearing Protection should be managed through a planned system of work: identify the task-specific hazards, eliminate exposure where practical, use engineered or collective controls before relying on PPE, verify critical safeguards before starting, and stop the task when controls are missing or conditions change. This guide applies those principles specifically to noise exposure control and correct selection and use of hearing protection.

Main Hazards

• • Long-duration noise exposure causing permanent hearing loss
• • Hearing protection worn incorrectly or removed in high-noise zones
• • Inhalation, skin, eye or ingestion exposure
• • Incompatible materials or uncontrolled release
• • Incorrect PPE selection, fit or condition

Essential Controls

1. 1Reduce noise at the source or by engineering controls before relying on hearing protection alone.
2. 2Select protection for the measured exposure and train users in correct fit and continuous use.
3. 3Identify the exposure route and eliminate or substitute the hazard where practical.
4. 4Use engineering controls, containment and ventilation before relying on PPE alone.
5. 5Maintain clear labeling, information, training and emergency arrangements.
6. 6Select, inspect and maintain PPE for the actual hazard and exposure level.

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