Plain cotton wads are not acceptable. Still another standard requires employers to provide a continuing effective hearing conservation program when sound levels exceed the thresholds. One challenge in conserving the hearing of craft labor is getting them to wear plugs and earmuffs. Industrial hygienist Scott Howes believes hearing protection should be put on the same level as hardhats and steel-toed boots. He acknowledges the discomfort of wearing protective devices in hot weather, but he also says there's potential for convenience if equipment could be designed combining head, eye and ear protection.
Some employers already put hearing protection as a top priority, with good reason.
One is Earth Technology LLC, a North Haven, Conn.-based environmental contractor. Joseph D. Barbeau, the firm's no-nonsense safety and health director, doesn't leave any room for slacking off. On a warm February afternoon, Barbeau is out visiting a three-person crew. Conn. Barbeau, with sound meter in hand, asks Anthony Pearce, the crew supervisor, to crank up the power in his black vacuum truck parked nearby. Barbeau glances over at two jump-suited workers near the tank to make sure they are wearing their plugs.