In certain industries such as manufacturing, construction and aviation, noise is a constant and intrusive reality that makes adequate hearing protection for workers an absolute necessity. Yet, despite this fact, the importance of hearing protection often goes unnoticed.
For employers and employees alike, ensuring the appropriate usage of this essential piece of safety kit is crucial, not just for meeting safety standards but for protecting the well-being of the team while they work.
Understanding the importance of hearing protection at work
Excessive noise created during certain industrial activities isn’t just a background annoyance; it poses a serious risk to hearing health. Here’s why hearing protection matters:
- Avoiding hearing damage: Regular exposure to loud noise can cause long-term hearing loss that can’t be reversed
- Meeting safety standards: Certain safety standards must be met in environments where noise levels reach the lower exposure action values of 80 dB or upper-value action values of 85 dB. In instances where these values are applicable, action must be taken by employers in line with the Control of Noise at Work Regulations
- Improving work environments: Reducing noise levels or protecting ears from noise can make it easier for workers to concentrate and feel less stressed, leading to better job performance and satisfaction. Research on workplace noise suggests that employees in environments exceeding 70 dB reported a 40% higher incidence of stress-related complaints
- The risks of noise-induced hearing loss: Noise-induced hearing loss is a permanent hearing impairment resulting from prolonged exposure to high levels of noise. It can occur from a one-time exposure to an intense “impulse” sound, like an explosion, or from continuous exposure to loud sounds over an extended period, such as noise generated in certain work environments. This type of hearing loss is preventable with proper ear protection, but once it occurs, it is irreversible, emphasising the importance of awareness and preventive measures in noisy workplace settings
Selecting the right hearing protection for your workplace
Choosing the right hearing protection means considering the specific needs of your workplace. Key boxes to tick include:
- Understanding noise levels – knowing how loud your workplace is will help you choose the right protection
- Ensuring comfort and fit – if hearing protection is comfortable and fits well with other safety gear, workers are more likely to wear it
- Looking for durability – durable and easy-to-maintain options are more cost-effective and ensure protection over time.
Factors to consider for effective hearing protection
Once you’ve gotten to grips with each of the above considerations, it’s time to focus on finding the most effective product. To choose the best hearing protection, take note of:
- The noise reduction rating (NRR) shows how much noise protection the device offers. Higher noise levels require higher NRR
- The type of protection, as the correct type (ear muffs or ear plugs) depends on the noise level and the work environment
- It is also important to provide training to employees to ensure they know how to use hearing protection correctly. This is as vital as the equipment itself
Ark Safety’s range of hearing protection solutions
Ark Safety offers a wide range of hearing protection products tailored to different industry needs. Our selection includes everything from high-performance ear muffs to custom-fit ear plugs, all designed with worker safety and comfort in mind.
Ensuring a safe workplace starts with protecting your employees’ hearing. We’re here to help with high-quality hearing protection solutions. Get in touch to find out more about our products and how they can help keep your workplace safe. Let’s work together to make your work environment safer and more productive.
