When Is Ear Protection Required?

Ear protection should be worn if exposed to a sound level which is close to or greater than the occupational exposure limits for noise, which is 85dB(A). 

Exposures at or above this level are considered hazardous and if left without ear protection, can cause noise induced hearing loss. Hearing protection is designed to reduce the intensity of sound and comes in the form of ear defenders and ear plugs. 

Ear Protection And The Law

The Control of Noise at Work Regulations 2005 aims to protect workers’ hearing from excessive noise at their place of work, which could cause them to lose their hearing and/or to suffer from tinnitus. 

The regulation states that the level at which employers must provide hearing protection and hearing protection zones is 85 dB(A) (daily or weekly average exposure) and the level at which employers must assess the risk to workers’ health and provide them with information and training is 80 dB(A). There is also an exposure limit value of 87 dB(A), taking account of any reduction in exposure provided by hearing protection, above which workers must not be exposed. 

If the daily noise level reaches 85dB(A), the law says that employers must provide ear protection, and ensure it is worn by employees. The employer must also keep the ear protection in good condition and clearly mark ear protection zones – areas where it must be worn. 

What Is The Best Ear Protection?

Ear Defenders

Ear defenders, also known as ear muffs, cover the entire outer ear to form an air seal so the entire circumference of the ear canal is blocked. The protection comes from acoustic foam which absorbs sound waves by increasing air resistance, thus reducing the amplitude of the waves. 

The better earplugs and defenders are approximately equal in sound reduction, although earplugs are better for low frequency noise and ear defenders for high frequency noise. 

High Performance Alpha Solway Ear Defender 34 SNR

The Alpha Solway Ear Defender 34 SNR is a high performance, comfortable ear defender without the weight, and fully adjustable to provide a superior fit for most head sizes. 

Some of its benefits include:

• High attenuation – SNR 34dB
• Low pressure but high performance
• Easy on head adjustment thanks to individual slide action
• Large ear cushions allow freedom to fit majority of ears for a comfortable fit
• Quality gloss finish for easy maintenance
  

The process of losing sound energy (attenuation) can be heightened by using earplugs in conjunction with ear defenders, and simultaneous use of both items usually adds 10 to 15 dB more protection than either used alone. Combined use should be considered when noise exceeds 105dB.  

Ear Plugs 

To ensure earplugs give you the best protection, choose ones with an SNR figure of at least 20dB.

Earplugs come in a wide variety of forms, so make sure the earplugs are intended for hearing protection. Many ear plugs sold by pharmacies and sports shops are designed for swimming, or to reduce irritating background noise, and don’t protect effectively against damaging levels of noise.

Non Detectable Disposable Foam Ear Plugs

Made from soft yellow foam, these plugs gradually expand and so conform to exactly the size and shape of the ear canal. With a 37 SNR rating, they provide excellent protection in very noisy environments. 

For those who have trouble keeping ear plugs in their ear, they can be fitted to a cord. 

Fully Metal Detectable Disposable Foam Ear Plugs 

These earplugs offer a high SNR 32, making them suitable for most noisy environments. Their tapered shape fits easily in the ear canal, and seals gently and snugly without pressure. 

For more information on ear protection, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our friendly, expert team on 01686 611 377, today.

Written by Kate, for MorSafe Supplies.