Occupational Noise and Hearing Protection
Hearing Protection Is the Last Barrier, Not the Noise-Control Plan
Noise-induced hearing damage can build gradually and remain unnoticed until communication, warning-signal recognition and quality of life are already affected. Earplugs or earmuffs can reduce exposure only when they are suitable, fitted correctly and worn for the full time in the hazard area. Start with the task and the source: remove or reduce the noise where practicable, control how exposure reaches people, and use verified hearing protection for the risk that remains.
Controls to confirm
- Assess the actual task, tools, duration, work pattern and nearby workers; eliminate unnecessary noisy work, select quieter equipment or methods, maintain machinery and isolate, enclose or damp the source where practicable.
- Mark and control hearing-protection zones, separate people from noise by distance, barriers or scheduling, and organise the work so exposure is reduced without creating communication, alarm-recognition or lone-working risks.
- Provide hearing protection selected for the measured or assessed exposure and compatible with other protective equipment; train workers, verify fit and condition, require consistent use, and arrange the site’s required hearing-health follow-up.
Today’s action
Observe one noisy task today and verify the source controls, zone boundaries, protection selection and wearer fit before the task continues.
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