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Hearing Conservation in Construction: Understanding Protection Requirements and Solution Options

Choosing appropriate hearing protection is essential for construction workers' health and well-being. This applies to both large construction sites and independent contractors, as they face unique challenges. Proper hearing protection prevents temporary or permanent hearing loss, tinnitus, and other auditory issues, while also reducing stress, maintaining productivity, and promoting mental health. Compliance with regulations, like OSHA guidelines, helps employers avoid legal consequences and retain skilled workers. To assess when hearing protection is needed, employers and workers must identify noise sources, considering factors like equipment changes, weather, and project phases. Comparing noise levels to OSHA guidelines, employers must reduce noise or provide suitable protection if limits are exceeded. Workers should be trained to recognize hazardous noise levels and use hearing protection accordingly. Selecting the right hearing protection device (HPD) involves considering noise levels, work type, and individual comfort and fit. Options include earplugs, earmuffs, and custom-molded devices, each offering different levels of noise reduction and user comfort. The appropriate choice depends on each worker's unique requirements and specific noise hazards. You will learn how to navigate the process of uncovering specific details that will allow you to find the best solutions for hearing protection on large construction sites as well as the smaller independent contractor. In this session, we will cover the following:
  • Why hearing protection is important
  • How to know/assess when hearing protection is required
  • How to determine the proper HPD for the environment
 

Learning Objectives:

  1. Understand the basics of hearing conservation, including how the ear works, the types and sources of noise, and the dangers of exposure to loud noise.
  2. Learn about the components of a hearing conservation program, including workplace noise assessments, engineering controls, and the selection and use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
  3. Identify the types of PPE available for hearing protection, including earplugs, earmuffs, and banded hearing protectors, and understand how to select the appropriate device for different types of noise exposure scenarios.
  4. Recognize the importance of proper fit and use of hearing protection devices, as well as the need for ongoing training and education to ensure workers are using the devices correctly.
  5. Develop an understanding of the three Ps of hearing protection - protection, purpose, and performance - and learn how to evaluate hearing protection solutions based on these criteria.
Cindy Bullion
Cindy Bullion

Product Development Assistant

Pete Esposito
Pete Esposito

Director of Industrial Sales for the NE region

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