Noise-Induced Hearing Loss: Understanding Employer Responsibilities And Prevention Methods

Noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) is a significant health concern in many workplaces across Ireland. Industrial sectors such as construction, manufacturing and agriculture thrive in this country, and employees working in these fields are frequently exposed to hazardous noise levels, increasing their risk of developing NIHL.

While it is preventable, the condition remains one of the most common occupational health issues. As a result, employers bear a critical responsibility in safeguarding their workers’ hearing and understanding their obligations and the steps to take in providing adequate protection is essential.

In this article, we explore these responsibilities and offer guidance on selecting the appropriate hearing protection for at-risk employees.

What is noise-induced hearing loss?

Noise-induced hearing loss occurs when the tiny hair cells in the inner ear, which are responsible for transmitting sound signals to the brain, are damaged due to exposure to loud noise. This damage can be caused by a one-time exposure to an intense “impulse” sound, like an explosion, or by continuous exposure to loud sounds over time, such as machinery noise in a factory.

NIHL is irreversible, making prevention critical. It affects not only an individual’s hearing ability but also their quality of life, leading to communication difficulties, social isolation and decreased productivity.

Employer responsibilities under Irish law

In Ireland, employers are legally required to protect employees from the dangers of excessive noise following the Control of Noise at Work Regulations, which form part of the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work (General Application) Regulations 2007.

According to the HSA, “exposure to high levels of noise, either continuously or as a loud sudden ‘bang’ from equipment such as cartridge-operated tools or guns, can have several physiological and psychological effects on workers including stress, tinnitus and if exposed to high noise levels over long periods, permanent loss of hearing can occur”. What’s more, workplace communications can also be affected by high levels of noise, which in turn increases the risk of accidents.

It is therefore vital for employers to take measures to mitigate noise exposure risks if levels exceed certain thresholds, namely:

• Lower exposure action value – 80 dB(A) daily or weekly exposure, or a peak sound pressure of 135 dB(C).
• Upper exposure action value – 85 dB(A) daily or weekly exposure, or a peak sound pressure of 137 dB(C).
• Exposure limit value – 87 dB(A) daily or weekly exposure, or a peak sound pressure of 140 dB(C).

Once these thresholds are exceeded, employers must implement a noise control action plan and provide hearing protection. This protection must adhere to relevant industry standards, such as EN 352 and EN 458, which outline the basic requirements and recommendations for hearing protection in specific environments.

Additionally, employers must conduct regular risk assessments, provide training and information, and ensure that any provided hearing protection is properly used and maintained.

What sectors are required to provide hearing protection?

Several industries are more prone to excessive noise levels, necessitating the provision of hearing protection. These industries include:

• Construction – Heavy machinery, power tools and site activities contribute to hazardous noise levels.
• Manufacturing – Factories and workshops often involve machinery that operates at high noise levels.
• Agriculture – According to a recent report, farmers are particularly prone to hearing loss due to their work with equipment like tractors, chainsaws and grain dryers, which can produce dangerous levels of noise.
• Transport – Workers in airports, on railways and even those involved in road construction are exposed to high noise levels.
• Entertainment and Hospitality – Nightclubs, bars and live music venues often exceed safe noise levels, affecting staff such as DJs, bartenders and security personnel.

Employers in these sectors must be vigilant in monitoring noise levels and providing appropriate protective measures to ensure compliance with Irish safety regulations.

Choosing the right hearing protection to prevent noise-induced hearing loss

Selecting the correct hearing protection is a crucial step towards the prevention of NIHL. Employers should follow these steps to choose the right safety solutions for their workers:

• Conduct a noise risk assessment to identify and assess all noise hazards in the workplace. Measure noise levels using sound level meters or dosimeters to determine if they exceed the legal limits.
• Determine the required level of attenuation based on the noise assessment results. It’s important to note that over-protection should also be avoided, as it can lead to communication difficulties and may discourage workers from using the protection consistently.
• Consider the work environment and conditions before choosing hearing protection. For example, earmuffs may be unsuitable in hot environments as they can cause discomfort.
• Ensure the chosen hearing protection is comfortable for extended wear and fits all employees correctly.

Once the correct method of hearing protection has been selected and implemented, it’s important to reinforce safety efforts by:

• Providing training on the correct use, care and maintenance of hearing protection so that workers understand the importance of wearing protection consistently and correctly.
• Implementing a maintenance programme for reusable hearing protection to ensure it remains effective, replacing earplugs and earmuffs as needed, especially if they become damaged or lose their effectiveness.

The importance of prioritising prevention

Prevention of NIHL should be a priority for employers across all sectors where noise is a risk factor.

Beyond compliance with legal obligations, providing a safe work environment demonstrates a commitment to employee well-being and can improve morale and productivity.

Furthermore, employers should not view hearing protection as a one-time task but rather as part of an ongoing strategy to mitigate occupational health risks.

Prioritise noise-induced hearing loss among your team with help from the experts at Ark Safety

As a full-service supplier of quality PPE and workwear, Ark Safety is committed to providing high-quality hearing protection solutions tailored to meet the specific needs of various industries. By choosing the right protection and prioritising safety, businesses can protect their most valuable asset – their employees.

Visit our website today for information on our wide range of hearing protection products. We also invite you to contact us for help with any safety wear queries you may have or to organise a site survey so we can determine your detailed requirements.