Hearing Protection Selection

Hearing protection must reduce noise exposure to a safe level without blocking it so much that the wearer cannot hear warnings.
The correct hearing protection is selected based on the noise level of the task and the attenuation rating of the protector.
Foam ear plugs, pre-moulded plugs, banded plugs, ear muffs, and custom-moulded plugs are the main types available.
The Single Number Rating (SNR) on the packaging tells you how much noise reduction the protector provides in decibels.
Over-protection is a real risk — protectors that block too much sound prevent hearing alarms, warnings, and vehicle movements.
Foam plugs must be rolled, inserted deeply, and held until fully expanded to achieve their rated noise reduction.
Ear muffs must seal fully around the ear — spectacles, hoods, and long hair break the seal and reduce effectiveness.
Workers in hearing protection zones must be provided with protectors free of charge and trained in correct fitting.
Disposable plugs are single-use — reusing dirty plugs introduces bacteria into the ear canal, causing infection.
A combination of plugs and muffs together provides additional protection for extremely high noise environments.

Match to noise level	Under-protection leaves hearing exposed to damage; over-protection blocks warning signals — the right match is critical.
Correct fitting	Incorrectly inserted foam plugs provide less than half their rated protection — rolling and deep insertion are essential for function.
Single use	Disposable ear plugs are designed for one use — reusing contaminated plugs causes ear infections and reduced performance.

Do

Don't

Select hearing protection based on the noise level and the SNR rating required.
Roll foam plugs, insert deeply, and hold for 30 seconds until fully expanded.
Ensure ear muff seals sit flat around the ear without spectacles breaking the seal.
Check that the selected protector does not over-protect and block warning signals.
Provide hearing protection free of charge to all workers in hearing protection zones.
Train workers in correct fitting technique for the specific protector type provided.
Replace disposable ear plugs after each use — never reuse single-use plugs.
Use combined plugs and muffs for extremely high noise environments when assessed.
Store reusable protectors in a clean case between uses to prevent contamination.
Attend audiometry testing to monitor whether your hearing is being protected effectively.

DON'T guess the protector type — select based on the measured noise level and SNR.
DON'T push foam plugs in without rolling them first — they do not seal correctly.
DON'T wear ear muffs over spectacles — the broken seal reduces protection significantly.
DON'T use protectors with excessive attenuation that block alarms and speech.
DON'T refuse hearing protection in designated zones — it is a legal requirement.
DON'T wear hearing protectors you have not been shown how to fit correctly.
DON'T reuse disposable ear plugs — contamination causes ear infections.
DON'T use plugs and muffs together unless the noise assessment specifically requires it.
DON'T store reusable protectors loose in pockets where they pick up dirt and debris.
DON'T skip audiometry — it is the only way to confirm your hearing is being protected.

See also: Noise Induced Hearing Loss | PPE Awareness and Responsibilities

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