Hearing protection is required in work environments exposed to noise levels equal to or greater than 85 decibels (dB) averaged over an eight-hour period. Knowing what type and level of noise you will be exposed to is critical before choosing the appropriate hearing protection devices. Sound-measuring instruments play a vital role in determining noise levels in a workspace. These instruments, such as sound level meters, noise dosimeters, and octave band analyzers, are instrumental in selecting the right hearing protection devices.

OSHA notes that noise may be a problem in your workplace if you:

• Hear ringing or humming in your ears when you leave work.
• Have to shout to be heard by a coworker an arm’s length away.
• Experience temporary hearing loss when leaving work.

The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) Sound Level Meter App, a practical tool available for download on mobile iOS devices, measures sound levels in the workplace and provides noise exposure parameters. Its use can significantly contribute to the reduction of occupational noise-induced hearing loss.

The OSHA standard 1910.95(b)(1) says that when employees are subjected to sounds over 85 decibels (dB), then administrative or engineering controls should be put in place. If that doesn’t reduce sound levels, hearing protection must be provided to limit the sound levels.

Not only will a few decibels bring down the risk of permanent hearing loss, but they also improve communication and noise-related annoyance.

OSHA defines Hearing Protective Devices (HPDs) as earmuffs and earplugs used when other control measures aren’t available to reduce noise exposure.

To measure HPDs effectiveness, the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) developed ANSI S3.19 to calculate noise reduction capability rates for each device. It’s a method that uses a “Noise Reduction Rating” (NRR), a unit of measurement represented in decibels.

To ensure a device offers the correct level of hearing protection, it must be tested properly and clearly labeled with the ANSI S3.19 standard number, showing its potential to reduce noise in decibels (dB).

For hearing protection requirements, the OSHA regulation [29 CFR 1910.95(i)(1)] states that:

Employers shall make hearing protectors available to all employees exposed to an eight-hour time-weighted average of 85 decibels or greater at no cost to the employees. Hearing protectors should be replaced as necessary.

Additional regulations from OSHA that are under 1910.95(i) are:

• Employees shall be allowed to select their hearing protectors from various suitable hearing protectors provided by the employer.
• The employer shall provide training in the use and care of all hearing protectors provided to employees.
• The employer shall ensure proper initial fitting and supervise the correct use of all hearing protectors.

The best hearing protection is the one that is comfortable and convenient and that you will wear whenever you are in an environment with hazardous noise. So, you’ll want to choose hearing protection based on performance, selection, care, and use.

Single-Use Ear Plugs are easy to use and range in different attenuation ratings. These disposable foam earplugs provide the right fit for every user. Products are available in corded or uncorded styles.

Reusable Ear Plugs have a unique three-flange design for a better seal in the ear canal, providing protection. The firm stem facilitates easy insertion and removal and increases comfort for long-term wear. Products are available in corded or uncorded styles.

Detectable Ear Plugs have a small piece of metal attached to the earplugs or built into the cord. The purpose is that when the product is screened for final inspection, the screeners can locate it and avoid contamination. Products are available in single-use and multiple-use styles.

Banded Ear Plugs consist of two ear plugs held over the ends of the ear canal by a rigid headband. These types of ear plugs create less bulk for easy don and doff.

Ear Muffs are made from sound-attenuating materials and padded ear cups for a secure fit without compromising comfort.