PPE/General/TBT-PPE-025
Hearing Protection Selection and NRR
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Toolbox Talk
Hearing Protection Selection and NRR
Noise-induced hearing loss is permanent and irreversible. Construction sites regularly exceed the lower and upper exposure action values, making hearing protection essential for many tasks. Choosing the correct level of protection matters — under-protection leaves you exposed, while over-protection isolates you from warnings and communication. This talk explains how to select the right hearing protection for the noise level on site.
Key Hazards
Permanent hearing loss from unprotected exposure to high noise levels on site
Under-protection from using ear plugs with insufficient noise reduction rating
Over-protection isolating workers from speech, alarms, and vehicle warnings
Incorrect fitting of ear plugs or muffs reducing their effective protection level
Control Measures
- Identify noise hazard areas using noise assessments and display mandatory hearing protection signs.
- Select hearing protection that reduces exposure to between 70dB and 80dB at the ear — not below 70dB.
- Use the SNR (Single Number Rating) to calculate the protection level provided by each product.
- Choose between ear plugs, ear muffs, or banded plugs based on comfort, duration, and compatibility with PPE.
- Ensure foam ear plugs are rolled, inserted correctly, and allowed to expand fully in the ear canal.
- Check that ear muff seals are clean, undamaged, and make full contact around the ear without gaps.
- Replace foam ear plugs after each use and replace ear muff cushions when they show wear or hardening.
- Wear hearing protection consistently in noise zones — removing it for even a few minutes significantly reduces protection.
- Attend audiometric testing where the noise assessment identifies you as needing health surveillance.
Remember
- Select protection that reduces noise to between 70dB and 80dB at the ear — not excessively below
- Use the SNR rating to calculate the actual noise level at your ear with the protector fitted
- Roll foam ear plugs fully and allow them to expand completely in the canal for maximum protection
- Check ear muff seals are clean, undamaged, and making full contact around the ear without gaps
- Wear hearing protection consistently — removing it briefly in a noise zone dramatically cuts protection
- Attend audiometric testing where the noise assessment identifies health surveillance as necessary
Applicable Legislation: Control of Noise at Work Regulations 2005 · Personal Protective Equipment at Work Regulations 1992 · BS EN 352 (Hearing Protectors) · Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974
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