WHAT IS AT STAKE
- Noise (Encarta Dictionary definition: A loud, surprising, irritating, or unwanted sound) can cause permanent damage to your hearing. Therefore, it is important to protect yourself against noise hazards.
WHAT IS THE DANGER
- Noise-induced hearing loss, either partial or full, that hearing aids, medicine, or surgery cannot reverse nor wholly restore.
EXAMPLES
- A sudden single loud sound of an explosion, jet engine or air tool can damage hearing. However, hearing loss usually occurs from lower doses of noise over time, with damage building up.
HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF
- Your employer is responsible for figuring out the right hearing protection equipment for you to use, and keeping the workplace as free as possible from noise hazards. If you have suggestions, pass them to your supervisor.
PROTECT YOUR HEARING
- Reduce the noise reaching your ears. Nothing can totally block sound, but some hearing protection devices can block out part of the noise.
- Electronic hearing protection devices permit conversations and warnings to reach the ear, but prevent harmful sound-pressure levels. Other electronic hearing protectors pick up and amplify desirable sounds. Some earmuffs or earplugs combine with communication systems for use in noisy areas.
- Earmuffs – filled with liquid or foam – come in various styles for function and comfort. Earmuffs are fitted with a headband made of metal or plastic. Some headbands can be folded or put around the front or back of the neck in various positions. Cooling pads are even available for earmuffs worn in hot work environments.
- Earplugs can be pre-molded to fit all wearers, or custom molded to fit exactly. They can be made expandable or non-expandable, and may be either reusable or disposable. Earplugs are available on cords you can wear around your neck so you can use them easily.
- Cooperate with your workplace’s hearing protection program. Wear recommended personal protective equipment and take good care of it by cleaning it according to the manufacturer’s recommendation and placing it as needed.
HEARING DAMAGE/LOSS CAN BE PREVENTED.
TAKE HEARING PRECAUTION SERIOUSLY!
Think safe - work safe - live safe
Think safely in everything you do
Safety First
