Noise and Hearing Conservation
Hearing Protection Starts Before the Earplug
Noise can damage hearing gradually, and the absence of pain does not mean the exposure is safe. Earplugs and earmuffs are important when specified, but they should support—not replace—quieter equipment, separation and well-planned work. Before entering a noisy area or starting a high-noise task, understand the exposure and confirm that every required control is ready.
Controls to confirm
- Use quieter equipment, maintenance, isolation or physical separation to reduce noise at its source wherever practicable.
- Plan the task to limit unnecessary time in high-noise areas and keep access restricted to people who need to be there.
- Wear the specified hearing protection correctly, inspect its condition and confirm that it suits the noise and communication needs.
Today’s action
Before the first noisy task, confirm the area controls and ask each exposed person to check the fit and condition of their hearing protection.
Future HSSE email updates
Register interest in HSSE email updates.
Record your interest in future Worksite Safety Hub messages, selected HSSE news and new-resource alerts. Email delivery is not connected yet.
Your experience matters
Share your thoughts on this page
Have a question, a useful experience or a suggestion? Add your input below.
Comments are public. Keep them respectful and relevant. Do not share contact details, confidential information or emergency reports.
Comments on this page
Loading comments…