Page 149 - IGC BOOK

Personal Hearing Protection

Personal hearing protection is needed to reduce the effects of noise exposure. The hearing
protection must be able to reduce the exposure to an acceptable standard set by the national
authorities. For instance, 85 db(A) TWA – 8 hours/day.

Hearing protection should be considered after all introducing all other means of controlling
noise.

The high noisy area must be defined as ‘mandatory hearing protection zones’. The workers must
be aware of the noise risks and available suitable controls to reduce exposure.

Earmuff – Headband Earmuff –Helmet mounted

Application and Limitation of Ear Defenders

Earmuffs Advantages Limitations

Fit around the ear and the designed so that one size fits Uncomfortable when worn
outer area most head sizes for long hours.

Types: easily seen at a distance to Incompatible with other types
assist in the monitoring of of PPE.
their use
Headband
Helmet mounted Effective may be reduced if it
may be worn with minor ear
infections doesn’t fit properly
Earplugs Advantages Limitations
Inserted into the ear canals small and easily carried require good hygiene
practices
convenient to use with other
personal protection may irritate the ear canal
equipment (can be worn with
earmuffs) more difficult to see and
monitor usage
more comfortable for long
hours

ENSIGN | Unit IG2 – Element 5 – Physical and Psychological 9
Health