Safe Work Practices > Hearing Protection

Date Reviewed: February 21, 2023

All employees subjected to noise levels over 85 dB in the workplace will be protected by engineering controls like barriers or wear personnel protective equipment like ear plugs and earmuffs.

A. Purpose of this practice

The purpose of this practice is to state requirements to reduce the amount of noise employees are exposed to in the workplace. These practices must be followed at all times to minimize any health risks like hearing loss.

B. Responsibility

Employees working in high noise level areas will be instructed in the purpose of the hearing protection practice. All new or transferred employees and other employees whose work may take them into these areas will also be instructed in the purpose. All employees will be trained in the proper use of the practices and any personnel protection equipment that they may need to use.

C. Initial Preparation

A trained employee will periodically measure the noise levels on the job site and will ensure that all precautions are being used to reduce the levels of exposure.

D. Hearing Protection Practice

(1) Introduce engineering controls to reduce excessive noise levels (above 85 dB).

These include:

•proper design of new machines

•modify present machines

•proper repair and upkeep of equipment

•sound treatment of walls and ceilings

•use of mufflers

•use of vibration dampeners

•reduce the noise transmission

▪increase the distance from the noise

▪construct barriers

(2) Introduce administrative controls when engineering controls are not possible.

These include:

•worker rotation

•job schedule changes

•personnel protective devices

•ear plugs

▪must be properly fitted

▪only approved plugs are to be used

▪cleaned everyday

▪can be worn under earmuffs

•earmuffs

(3) Utilize a preventive health program to educate employees in safe levels of noise, exposure, effects of noise on their health, and use of personal protection.

(4) Provide hearing protective equipment to every employee working in areas where continuous noise levels exceed regulated levels of over 85 dB.

(5) Ear protectors must be properly fitted and employees will be instructed in their use and care.