4 myths about ear protection

“What was that?”

Bad news first: According to OSHA (Occupational Health and Safety Administration), 22 million workers are exposed to potentially damaging noise at work each year. Workers who are exposed to high levels of noise can suffer permanent hearing loss—sometimes, not even surgery or hearing aids can help. Noise induced hearing loss is permanent.  While hearing aids can assist in enhancing frequencies, once hearing is lost, there is no way to regain it.

Here’s the good news. Noise induced hearing loss is preventable. There are ways to turn down the volume, while still getting work done, if you understand the facts about hearing conservation.

Here are four myths about ear protection in the workplace to get you started.

4. It’s not really that loud.

Just because the noise doesn’t bother you, or you think you’re used to it, doesn’t mean it’s safe.

Noise-induced hearing loss can accumulate over a long period of time. You may not feel any symptoms of hearing loss at first, but the effects become apparent over years of continual exposure. Repeated exposures to loud noise for just short bursts of time can result in permanent hearing damage.

OSHA’s action level for noise is defined as 85 dB(A) over an eight-hour shift. Shifts at Sanford Lab sometimes exceed 8 hours, however, to provide a more applicable measurement, Sanford Lab uses a 50 percent noise dose action level. For reference, the normal speaking voice is around 70 decibels; operating a loud construction excavator is usually around 110 decibels.

It is not possible, however, to gauge these levels correctly with just your ear; noise levels must be regularly evaluated with proper equipment.

3. Earplugs are the best option.

Earplugs are vital protection when noise above the action level is present; as personal protective equipment (PPE), however, it is considered your last line of defense against hearing damage.

“The best way is to lower the volume at the source,” said Jason Rosdahl, industrial hygienist and safety specialist at Sanford Lab. “This can be done by eliminating or changing a process, along with mufflers on equipment. You can also put barriers between yourself and the source, such as curtains or walls with noise absorbent material, enclosed cabs on vehicles or being a sufficient distance from the source.”

This type of forethought can reduce the onslaught of noise, making PPE even more effective.

2. Just pop them in.

It's not quite that simple. In order for PPE to be effective, it needs to be in good condition, properly inserted and properly worn.

“Earplugs and muffs must be inspected on a routine basis,” Rosdahl said. “You need to make sure these types of PPE are used correctly and in good condition to protect your ears.”

When using soft foam earplugs, like those provided to workers at Sanford Lab, it’s important to Roll, Pull and Hold, as shown at this link. Test your ear protection after inserting it—make sure noises around you are significantly muffled.

Never improvise hearing protection by stuffing cotton, tissue, wax or other items into your ears. Items can get stuck in the ear canal and, in severe cases, puncture the ear drum.

1. It’s all up to you to protect your hearing.

The truth is, you have an entire facility working to keep noise levels low and employees protected.

The ESH Department updates standards and holds trainings to keep employees informed. They also work with directors and supervisors to identify noise hazards, conduct noise monitoring and establish appropriate noise controls. Sanford Lab personnel are responsible for using the implemented noise controls, wearing PPE, completing training and receiving audiometric monitoring.

“In the third quarter of every year, Sanford Lab provides annual audiometric testing to various members of our Hearing Conservation Program (HCP) in our workforce, along with ERT members,” Rosdahl said. “This testing helps us see if workers are experiencing any noise-induced hearing loss, along with providing an opportunity for additional coaching and training.”

Further information:

Employees are encouraged to learn more about Sanford Lab's Hearing Conservation program, including different forms of hearing protection and noise reduction rating evaluations at Sanford Lab. 

For more information on hearing conservation at Sanford Lab, contact Jason Rosdahl or Laura Baatz.

Jason Rosdahl
605-722-8650 
JRosdahl@sanfordlab.org

Laura Baatz
605-722-5041 Ext. 258
Laura.Baatz@alarisgroup.com