Hearing Protection is key in the prevention of Noise-Induced Healing Loss (NIHL).
If it is not possible to eliminate or reduce the noise at the source by engineered products and methods, Workers should use hearing protection to reduce the volume or noise reaching their ears.
Select hearing protection that is:
- Correct for the job. Refer to the Canadian Standards Association (CSA) Standard Z94.2-14 “Hearing Protection Devices
- Provides adequate protection or noise attenuation. Check the manufacturer's literature.
- Compatible with other required personal protective equipment, or communication devices.
- Comfortable enough to be worn for extended length of time.
- Appropriate for the temperature and humidity in the workplace.
- Able to provide adequate communication and audibility needs (e.g., the ability to hear alarms or warning sounds in case of emergency).
Earplugs are inserted in the ear canal. They may be premolded (preformed), moldable, rolldown foam, push-to-fit, or custom molded. Disposable, reusable and custom earplugs are available.
Semi-insert earplugs which consist of two earplugs held over the ends of the ear canal by a rigid headband.
Earmuffs consist of sound-attenuating material and soft ear cushions that fit around the ear and hard outer cups. They are held together by a head band or can be used in conjunction with other safety products like hardhats.
