How to Use Ear Plugs for Hearing Protection

How to Use Ear Plugs for Hearing Protection

Introduction:

In this tailgate meeting, we’ll be discussing the crucial topic of how to use ear plugs effectively in noisy work environments. Protecting your hearing in construction and industrial settings is not just about compliance; it’s about preserving your health. Let’s learn about ear plugs and how they protect us from noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL).

Why Use Ear Plugs?

Hearing protection is needed in the following situations:

• Construction Sites: Essential during activities like jackhammering or when working near loud equipment like air compressors.
• Industrial Settings: Crucial in areas with machinery such as lathes, grinders, or in noisy manufacturing zones.
• Noise Levels Above 85 dB: Whenever you’re in an environment where noise exceeds this level, using ear plugs is a must for hearing safety.

Understanding Noise Reduction Rating (NRR):

When selecting ear plugs, consider their Noise Reduction Rating (NRR):

• NRR: This rating tells you how much noise the ear plug can block. For example, if you’re in a 100 dB environment and your ear plugs have an NRR of 30, the noise might be reduced to about 70 dB. However, the actual reduction can vary, so choose ear plugs with an appropriate NRR for your work environment.

How to Use Ear Plugs Correctly:

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to insert your ear plugs correctly:

Clean Hands: Always start with clean hands to prevent ear infections.

Roll or Compress: For foam plugs, roll them into a thin cylinder to fit into your ear canal.

Pull Back: Gently pull your ear up and back to open the ear canal.

Insert: Push the compressed plug all the way into your ear canal. It should sit just inside your ear canal, not protruding much. If it won’t go in all the way, you need to pull your ear back more to straighten your ear canal.

Check Fit: When you feel the plugs expand, you should notice a change in your hearing. Also look in the mirror. If the plugs are sticking out of your ears, they are not inserted far enough. They should not extend past the opening of your ear.

What Happens If You Don’t Use Ear Plugs?

Failing to wear hearing protection where it is needed can lead to:

• Hearing Damage: Both temporary and permanent hearing loss, including tinnitus.
• Safety Risks: Reduced ability to hear important sounds like alarms or warnings, increasing accident risks.
• Consequences at Work: If you fail to wear the required PPE, your employer can write you up or even fire you. Safety rules are in place for your benefit. Make sure to follow them!

Conclusion:

Anyone working in loud environments must know how to protect their hearing. Make it a daily habit to wear your PPE, and choose those that fit well and have a suitable NRR. Your employer will supply earplugs to you, but feel free to use your preferred type as long as they meet safety standards. Be sure to read workplace posters on PPE use to learn more about hearing protection.

Q&A: Do you have any questions about using ear plugs? Let’s talk about it.

Learn more about occupational noise exposure from OSHA here.