Working a prolonged time in loud noise can significantly impact your hearing, especially when sound volume exceeds safe limits. It is essential to shield your ears, not just to prevent hearing damage, but also to help you focus in loud surroundings. The question then is, how do you determine the correct level of protection needed for your specific needs?
The importance of knowing noise levels and outcomes
The damage caused by noise exposure is a combination of both its intensity and the duration spent in that environment. dB’s are the essential measurement unit for noise, indicating the strength of sound. Once noise hits a level of 85 dB or above, it creates a threat to your hearing, mainly if the exposure is extended.
As a frame of context, 85 dB is roughly the same loudness as the sound of city traffic heard from within a car. Though this loudness might not seem excessive, spending eight hours in it continuously can cause hearing impairment. As the sound intensifies, the period of time you can be exposed securely decreases:
- Exposure to 90 dB (the sound of a Lawnmower) for more than 4 hours could be damaging.
- 100 dB (Power tools): Limit exposure to 1 hour or less.
- Only 15 minutes of exposure to 110 dB (like a Leaf blower) is enough to cause harm.
- Even momentary exposure to 120 dB (e.g., a Rock concert) is enough to cause hearing damage.
- 140 dB (Jet engine): Immediate damage and pain can occur.
Identifying hazardous noise levels
It is vital to use hearing protection if your regular exposure is to noise levels exceeding 85 dB. Such protection is especially critical in industrial settings, including plants and construction sites, or any places where high noise is produced by devices, equipment, or machinery.
You can encounter hazardous noise levels even in recreational pursuits—such as attending shows, utilizing leaf blowers, or shooting sports—making hearing protection prudent outside of a job setting.
Choosing protection based on Noise Reduction Ratings (NRR)
We assess the performance of hearing protection through its Noise Reduction Rating (NRR). Stated in dB, this figure shows the level of sound reduction the protective device is able to block. A greater reduction in sound is ensured by increased NRR ratings. An illustration is a pair of earplugs with a 30 dB NRR, which could lower an 85 dB sound to 55 dB, thereby keeping you securely within the limits of safe exposure.
In selecting protection, you must gauge the exact noise levels you are exposed to and verify your chosen device reduces the volume sufficiently to remain under 85 dB.
The important function of comfort in consistent protection
Although the NRR is crucial, comfort is equally significant for ensuring that the protection will be used consistently over time. When the hearing protection is bulky or ill-fitting, you are more likely to remove it, which leaves your hearing vulnerable against dangerous noise.
When the protection is comfortable, it promotes constant use and reduces the danger associated with removing it periodically. For example, if earmuffs are too bulky or lead to discomfort, you may be inclined to remove them occasionally, subjecting your ears to harmful noise levels.
The main types of hearing protection gear
A selection of hearing protection options are on offer, all with their own set of advantages and drawbacks:
- Foam Earplugs: These sit inside the ear canal and offer excellent noise reduction. They’re lightweight and disposable but may feel uncomfortable for some users.
- Pre-Molded Earplugs: These rest just outside the ear canal and are reusable, making them a more sustainable option. They’re easier to insert and remove compared to foam earplugs.
- Enclosing the whole ear, Earmuffs are perfect for settings where noise volume changes, as they can be easily removed and replaced. Their drawbacks include potentially feeling warm or heavy over a long period.
The best choice of protection is dependent on your personal preferences and the specific needs of your environment. For example, workers in construction may favor the convenience of earmuffs, while factory personnel might select earplugs for all-day wear.
Making sure you wear it continuously
The most highly effective hearing protection is the one you’ll wear steadily. Taking off the protection for even a short time of minutes can result in lasting damage to your hearing. It is absolutely important to find a solution that strikes a balance between comfort, protection, and convenience for this reason.
Protect your hearing for the future
While noise is a constant part of life, correct hearing protection allows you to protect your hearing without sacrificing the sounds surrounding you.
To discuss the best methods for safeguarding your hearing health and assessing your potential for noise-related hearing damage, please reach out to us now.