Preventing Workplace Hearing Loss with Earplugs and Earmuffs
Written by Staff Writer
Repeated or prolonged exposure to hazardous noise can cause permanent hearing damage, making hearing protection essential when noise cannot be adequately reduced.
The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) recommends an exposure limit of 85 A-weighted decibels (dBA), averaged over eight hours.
Noise Levels and Hearing Damage
Your risk depends on both noise level and exposure duration. If you work in hazardous environments covered by OSHA 30-hour training, follow your employer’s noise controls and protective measures. Assessing noise levels and other workplace hazards helps identify where action is needed.
Repeated exposure can damage your hearing over time, while a single very loud sound can cause immediate loss. For example, MedlinePlus lists a jackhammer at about 120 decibels from roughly 3 feet away. Actual levels vary with the tool and distance; protective measures should reflect measured exposure and duration.
For employers: Reduce noise at the source through quieter equipment or equipment maintenance before relying on earplugs and earmuffs. NIOSH recommends engineering and administrative controls first, with protectors used for noise that cannot be adequately controlled.
When selecting personal protective equipment (PPE), choose appropriate PPE for your exposure. The Noise Reduction Rating (NRR) describes laboratory-tested noise reduction. However, NIOSH research shows that real-world protection often falls short because of fit and use.
Fit is critical for earplugs and earmuffs. Improperly fitted devices can allow noise to seep in, reducing their protective capabilities. Regular training on proper use can enhance effectiveness. Your employer must train you on how to insert earplugs correctly and adjust earmuffs for a snug fit.
OSHA Requirements for Employers
In general industry, OSHA’s 29 CFR 1910.95 sets an eight-hour permissible exposure limit of 90 dBA. At or above 85 dBA averaged over eight hours, employers must implement a hearing conservation program, including noise monitoring, training and hearing protectors. They must also make audiometric testing (hearing tests) available at no cost, including baseline and annual tests to monitor hearing changes.
Construction follows separate standards, 29 CFR 1926.52 and 1926.101. These require feasible administrative or engineering controls when exposure exceeds permitted levels, with protectors provided and used when controls are insufficient. Construction’s exposure table lists 90 dBA for eight hours and requires a hearing conservation program when its limits are exceeded.
Choosing and Fitting Earplugs and Earmuffs
Understanding the differences between these devices supports effective hearing protection and general industry safety training. The table below compares key factors for selecting and using them.
Factor | Earplugs | Earmuffs |
Noise Reduction Rating (NRR) | Varies by model; poor insertion can substantially reduce protection | Varies by model; protection depends on an intact seal |
Fit and Comfort | Foam plugs must be rolled and inserted correctly; follow instructions for other types | Must fit snugly around the ears without discomfort |
Effectiveness | Dependent on proper insertion technique | Dependent on seal around the ears |
Maintenance | Discard disposable plugs as directed; clean reusable models according to instructions | Replace cushions when worn or damaged |
Communication | Can muffle speech and warning sounds | Standard passive models can also muffle speech and warning sounds |
Cost | Generally lower initial cost; disposable plugs require ongoing replacement | Higher initial cost, but reusable |
Best Use Case | Tasks where an in-ear device provides adequate protection and a secure fit | Tasks where an over-ear device provides adequate protection without interference from other PPE |
Derating means reducing a laboratory NRR to estimate workplace protection. OSHA subtracts seven decibels for A-weighted measurements and applies an additional 50% safety factor when evaluating the need for engineering controls. Current NIOSH guidance recommends individual fit testing instead of its older derating method to measure the protection each worker receives.
Pro-Tip for employers: Workers may use hearing protectors inconsistently when they are uncomfortable, difficult to access or poorly suited to the job. Removing them during noisy tasks creates gaps in safety.
To improve comfort and consistent use, involve workers in choosing hearing protectors. Let them try different types and sizes. Ask for feedback about comfort and fit.
Train everyone on correct use and why it matters. Make protectors easy to access at all work areas. Check in often to address discomfort or issues. Worker involvement can help you identify equipment they can wear correctly throughout noisy tasks.
Workplace Noise Statistics
Here are key NIOSH statistics highlighting the importance of hearing protection and PPE training:
- Approximately 27 million U.S. workers reported hazardous workplace noise exposure during the previous year, according to NIOSH’s statistics based on 2023 data.
- Among noise-exposed workers surveyed in 2014, 53% reported using protectors half the time or less, rather than always or usually, according to a NIOSH study.
- Approximately 11% of U.S. workers reported hearing difficulty in 2023, according to NIOSH research.
Noise levels at or above 85 A-weighted decibels (dBA), averaged over eight hours, can cause permanent hearing damage, making protection essential.
Cost Considerations for Employers
Disposable hearing protectors generally cost less upfront, but recurring replacement costs can accumulate over time. Reusable devices may cost more initially but can provide better long-term value when properly cleaned and maintained. Employers should also account for the cost of required hearing tests when budgeting for a hearing conservation program. Under OSHA’s general industry standard, required protectors and audiometric testing must be provided at no cost to employees.