Page 855 - Xmo Strata - Bulletin Archive
P. 855
Health, Safety & Environmental Bulletin No 317
23 August 2012
Ear Plug Safety
Please see enclosed self-explanatory bulletin that was shared with us by Johnson Controls.
The attached bulletin shows the importance of reading and following the instructions on all equipment,
even when the method of use seems obvious.
Ear plugs and ear defenders are a necessary to protect your hearing, and must be worn when noise
levels exceed 85dBA. They are safe to wear as long as basic instructions are followed.
If using ear plugs, always ensure they are clean, and that your hands are clean before inserting them.
When inserting or removing the plug, give it a slight turning motion to ease it into/out of your ear.
Hearing protection (EN352) must be carried on the van at all times and must be worn when noise levels
exceed 85dBA (when you have to raise your voice to be heard by somebody 2m away). It is also a
company recommendation that hearing protection is worn where noise levels exceed 80dB. (Note that
for guidance purposes noise level increases on a logarithmic scale, therefore the level doubles for each
3dBA increase). Where noise levels exceed 95dBA (noise at a night club bar), double protection must
be used, i.e. both ear plugs and ear muffs. If you have any doubts about the sound levels on any site, or
whilst using any plant / equipment, contact your supervisor.
For guidance purposes, a typical generator produces up to 85dB, prolonged exposure to this level of
noise will permanently damage your hearing; a Bosch SDS battery powered hammer drill has a typical
noise level of 91dB (with a typical peak noise level of 104dB). A Hilti light duty battery drill is 85dB.
Hearing damage is a gradual process; at first you will probably not notice any difference. Slowly you
may notice that you have trouble using the telephone, your family may complain you have the
television on too loud, or you may have ringing in the ears (tinnitus) – these are the early signs of
hearing damage.
In order to prevent hearing damage, always assess the area you are working in, and the equipment you
are going to use to check if the noise level is or will be too high. If you believe the noise level on any
site you are working on, or any equipment you are working with is high, then contact your supervisor
immediately.
If possible always try to reduce the noise level at source before resorting to personal hearing protection.
Can the work be done at a time where the noise level is lower?
Can the work be done away from the noisy area?
Can the noise level be reduced (switch off the noisy machine / close doors)?
Can you use a tool / item of plant that is quieter?
