After engineering controls are evaluated for effectiveness or feasibility, administrative controls should be considered to reduce noise exposure. Personal Protective Equipment, such as ear plugs or muffs, may be used to reduce the amount of noise exposure. Types of Hearing Protectors Hearing protection devices are the first line of defense against noise in environments where engineering controls have not reduced employee exposure to safe levels. Hearing protective devices can prevent significant hearing loss, but only if they are used properly. The most popular hearing protection devices are earplugs which are inserted into the ear canal to provide a seal against the canal walls.
Earmuffs enclose the entire external ears inside rigid cups.
The inside of the muff cup is lined with acoustic foam and the perimeter of the cup is fitted with a cushion that seals against the head around the ear by the force of the headband. Use of Hearing Protectors Management, Supervision and Employees shall properly wear the prescribed hearing protectors while working in or traveling through any section of a Location that is designated a High Noise Area. Hearing protectors, at least two types of plugs and one type of muffs, will be provided and maintained by Company Hearing protectors and replacements will be provided free of charge Hearing protectors will be properly worn at all times, except in offices, breakrooms, rest facilities. Preformed earplugs and earmuffs should be washed periodically and stored in a clean area, and foam inserts should be discarded after each use. It is important to wash hands before handling pre-formed earplugs and foam inserts to prevent contaminants from being placed in the ear which may increase your risk of developing infections.