When Is Hearing Conservation Equipment Needed?

In an industrial environment, loud noise will usually be part of the job. Machinery can sometimes create noise much louder than the safe decibel level, especially in an enclosed space. Without proper protection, these sounds can damage your hearing permanently. Martin’s team of safety professionals can help you understand why hearing conservation is so important, when to use hearing protection, and what OSHA says about it.

Why Is Hearing Conservation Important?

Noise in industrial workplaces comes from many sources—heavy machinery, power tools, and vehicles like forklifts. This damage often happens slowly, meaning you might not even notice it until it’s too late. Hearing loss can make it harder to communicate, affect your ability to focus, and decrease your quality of life. Unlike a cut or a bruise, hearing loss can’t be healed. Taking a proactive approach to hearing protection is the only way to make sure your team’s long-term health isn’t impacted.

When Is Hearing Protection Needed?

How can you know if the noise is too loud? The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) sets the limit for safe noise exposure at 85 decibels (dB) over an 8-hour workday. This means if workers are exposed to noise at or above 85 dB, hearing protection is required. Common equipment like grinders, drills, and compressors can easily exceed safe noise levels. Martin Safety Professional Malcolm Ritchie says a dosimeter can be used to perform an initial assessment of noise levels. If you approach OSHA’s “danger zone” of 85 dB, further steps will be required.

“If you’re over 85 decibels or greater, you need to call in a certified industrial hygienist,” Ritchie says. “They will come out with a different dosimeter that your employees wear for eight hours and establish a time-weighted average, which is what OSHA requires.”

Different Types of Hearing Protection

There are several types of hearing protection available, each with its own pros and cons. Choosing the right type of hearing protection often depends on the work environment, noise level, and personal comfort.

1. Earplugs: These are small plugs that fit inside your ear. Earplugs are effective and easy to carry around. They come in foam or custom-molded versions. Foam earplugs are inexpensive and disposable, while custom-molded ones offer a perfect fit but cost more. They can often be inserted different ways as well.
2. Earmuffs: These go over the ears like a set of headphones. Earmuffs can be more comfortable for some people, especially if they don’t like the feeling of something inside their ears. They also provide a consistent seal, which can be helpful in high-noise areas.
3. Electronic Hearing Protectors: Some earmuffs or earplugs have electronics inside that help dampen loud noises while still allowing you to hear normal conversations or warnings. These are great for environments where communication is still important.

OSHA’s Requirements for Hearing Conservation

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has clear guidelines to keep workers safe from harmful noise. Employers are required to provide hearing protection devices at no cost to employees exposed to noise at harmful levels. Workers should also be trained on how to properly use and care for their hearing protection. If workers are exposed to noise at or above 85 dB for an 8-hour workday, employers are required to have a hearing conservation program. This program includes regular hearing tests, providing workers with protective equipment, and educating them on the risks of noise exposure.

Hearing conservation isn’t just about avoiding loud noises at work—it’s about protecting one of our most valuable senses. Workers should use protection constantly, because even short-term exposure can cause permanent harm. Be aware of warning signs, such as a ringing in your ears or difficulty hearing conversation outside of work. And if you’re responsible for creating a safety-conscious culture in your facility, be sure to lead by example.

By understanding when and why hearing protection is needed, and by following OSHA’s guidelines, you can protect peoples’ health and ensure a safer, healthier workforce.

To schedule a noise level inspection or a training opportunity for your team, contact your Martin Sales Rep or call 800.828.8116.