1. Hearing Protection Training
Welcome everyone to the Hearing Training Seminar.
There are three main objectives for this training:
The first one is to identify the types of hearing hazards found in the workplace,
The second objective is to identify the types of protection to use,
And lastly, to review the benefits of wearing hearing protection.
This seminar will also provide you with research and facts that emphasizes the importance of hearing protection in the workplace.
You will leave here equipped with the knowledge required to safely wear hearing protection and advise other staff members of the dangers of not protecting their hearing.
PART 2 – THE SOLUTION
© Copyright SHS 2006

2. How can you isolate the hazards?
Step 1: Identify the hazard
Step 2: Remove or reduce the hazard
Step 3: Wear personal protective equipment
STEP 1: IDENTIFY THE HAZARD
To identify hazards to your safety, there are a couple of things you have to determine:
What is the risk around you?
What is the likelihood that an accident could happen?
How severe could the consequences be of an accident?
And how long and how often have you been exposed to a hazard?
STEP 2: Remove or reduce the hazard
There are measures you can take to eliminate or diminish the risks such as:
Get rid of the hazard
Substitute with something less hazardous
Isolate the risk through production controls such as creating enclosures or barriers around equipment or mixing chemicals in a well-ventilated room.
STEP 3: WEAR PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT
The best protection you can give yourself is to consistently wear your personal protective equipment when working around workplace hazards.

3. When it comes to the point that hearing protectors are required
Checklist
Understand your options
Ensure proper fit & compatibility,
Are suitable for the task and hazard
Are compatible with other PPE
Comply with the applicable AS/NZS Standard
Are inspected and cleaned regularly
Feedback: Regular (2yrs) audiometric testing
There are seven simple things to remember to ensure that hearing protectors offer the ultimate protection.
Understand the styles of HPD available
It must fit properly and is compatible with other products you may need to wear such as respirators and specs,
It should be suitable for the task at hand and the hazard
It should be compatible with other personal protection equipment
It should comply with the relevant AS/NZS Standard AS/NZS 1270:2002
And the equipment should be inspected on a regular basis and maintained accordingly
Finally every good system needs evaluation and feedback. What has been the results. Has noise levels changed? Is hearing conservation being achieved?
Hearing loss can be a devastating thing to have to live with so…
When it comes to your hearing, hazards are all around… Safeguard your hearing from noise and sound

4. Compatibility

5. Types of Hearing Protection
There are three types of hearing protection – ear muffs, earplugs and ear bands or caps.
Ear muffs and earplugs provide about equal protection, ear bands somewhat less.
earmuffs
ear bands or caps
earplugs

6. Types of Hearing Protectors
Hearing Protection
Types of Hearing Protectors
All hearing protectors are designed to reduce the intensity (loudness) of noise to the inner ear.
They work much better than wads of cotton or bits of cloth placed in the ear.
All three types have advantages and disadvantages and people vary on which they prefer to use.
“The three types of hearing protection are ear muffs, ear plugs or ear bands or caps. Cotton or cloth are not options.”
Cotton doesn’t work!!

7. Types of Hearing Protectors
AS/ NZS Standards Rating System
Types of Hearing Protectors
The SLC80 is derived from a hearing protector’s octave band analysis and includes a correction to ensure that 80% of wearers obtain the stated degree of protection.
SLC80 #
Assigned protection factor for 8 hours Sound Level Conversion (SLC80)
On all AS/NZS certified product they must carry or display information regarding performance. There are two rating systems. The SLC80 rating and Class system.
The SLC80 number must also be accompanied by octave band attenuation data dB (well see a sample of this table later in the training).

8. Class, SLC 80 system, exposure.
AS/NZS Standards Rating System
Class, SLC 80 system, exposure.
Class 85dB(A) range
1 > dB
2 90< dB
3 95< dB
4 100< dB
5 105< dB
The class system was conceived to be an easier way for consumers to select HPD. It can be related back to SLC80 rating. Most certified earmuffs will provide you with both sets of information.
it is best to choice a HPD muff based upon the intensity and frequency and duration. Try to match your needs to the performance of the NPD. The Octave band attenuation data is an important reference. It is important not to over attenuate because selecting the best NPD will block out unwanted noise and in most cases make communication clearer.

9. Std Dev. (variation around average)
Understanding Attenuation Data
Frequency
125
250
500
1000
2000
4000
8000
SLC80
Class
Mean (or average)
28.7
34.6
42.1
39.1
50.7
39.9
Std Dev. (variation around average)
5.4
5.9
7.7
4.7
4.1 30 5
Mean SD
23.3
29.2
36.2
31.4
37.4
46.6
35.2
It is very important to understand this table not class and SLC rating will be identified on packaging or instructions for use. The frequency and corresponding performance of the HPD are important data in matching the device to your environment

10. Some practical applications
Australian Standards Rating System
Some practical applications
We will use the noise hazards we discussed earlier in your work place as examples.
Measure Noise level = A -
Safe level for Shift = B C
Equals SLC80 rating required = C
[This information is required as part of the training on noise. You can add the information to this slide, or in a paper handout, or you could show or discuss with workers noisy areas or equipment. You can also show them records of noise measurements.]

11. Hearing Protection Ear Plugs
Earplugs are designed to fit into the ear canal and are made of foam, rubber or plastic, corded or cordless and are either one-size-fits-all or have size options.
Some are disposable, some are reusable.
They are lightweight, and require no maintenance.
They are inserted into the ear canal.
“Foam earplugs are disposable and are usually discarded after a day’s use or more often in dirty environments. Some plugs are connected by a cord to prevent dropping or losing them.”
“ Re-usable plugs should be cleaned periodically in warm soap and water. Earplugs should not be handled with dirty hands. Some earplugs have little “handles” for use in dirty environments.”
It is interesting to note that the National Acoustics Laboratories recommend that Otoscopic Examinations on workers be carried out before the use of earplugs:
“Both ear canals, should be inspected prior to fitting any ear plug in order to detect signs of medical pathologies or excess cerumen (wax) which would need treatment before ear plugs could be worn.
If excess wax is present, it must be removed by an MP to prevent the plug from impacting the wax.
Observing the shape of the ear canal will also help with the selection of an appropriate plug.” size and shape is very important
It must be remembered that earplugs diminish in protection over a working day as they work their way out of the ear canal whilst chewing, talking and so forth. Therefore re-fitting regularly to ensure proper local in the ear canal is essential.
Note: Ear plugs generally have lower attenuation than earmuffs and require re-fitting several times a day to maintain protection

12. Fitting Disposable Ear Plugs1
Normal 2
Compress earplug by rolling it tightly 3
Pull ear upward & outward to insert

13. Fit Check Inserting Foam Earplugs
“The left picture shows plugs only partially inserted into the ear canal – an all too common and very serious mistake.
Remember hold for 10 seconds to allow plug to expand fully. If you have difficulty fitting plugs try moistening them a little.
Advantages: long hair, ear rings, portable, hot conditions
Disadvantages: provides little protection when fitted incorrectly, award to fit with dirty hands or wearing gloves, cannot use if wearer has or in prone to ear infections, difficult for supervisors to check been worn correctly, tapered plugs gradually slide out while in use
Earplug incorrectly inserted
Earplug correctly inserted
Earplugs not well inserted into the ear canal will not provide complete protection

14. Hearing Protection Ear Bands
Ear bands are like earplugs, except they do not go into the ear canal, they only block it.
They are good for occasional use or for people who find earplugs uncomfortable.
They are not as protective as earplugs or muffs.
“Ear caps also known as bands only reduce noise to the ear by smaller protection factors about 10 decibels and in some cases the teens. SHS consider these not be acceptable for constant noise exposure above decibels.”

15. Care of Ear Plugs Disposable ear plugs Reusable ear plugs
Dispose of the disposable ear plugs after use.
Reusable ear plugs
Wash the reusable ear plugs with warm soapy water and dry thoroughly.
Check regularly for cracks, shrinkage, hardening, tearing or permanent deformities.
Dispose of plugs if any signs of wear are noticed.
Store ear plugs in a carry case

16. Hearing Protection Ear Muffs
Earmuffs cover the whole ear and are preferred by many people.
They have replaceable pads and some high-tech styles filter out specific noise pitches.
They last longer than plugs and are more likely to be fitted correctly.
Ear muffs are slightly better all-round protection and are more likely to be fitted properly. They generally provide superior protection across intensity/ frequency range over earplugs and earbands.
The advantages of earmuffs are:
Advantages: provides best protection, careful fitting is not critical, even when worn they offer some form of protection, can be used regardless of ear canal size or infection, easy to fit with dirty hands or wearing gloves, easy for supervisors to check been worn correctly.
Disadvantages: In hot conditions sweat cushions are required, need added care when considering use with long hair or spectacles to realise greatest full benefit of the rating.

17. Hearing Protection Ear Muffs Accessories
Some earmuffs are attached to hardhats visors or brow guards.
Others are headband and neck band styles
Some high-tech earmuffs can filter out certain frequencies or have radios inside for communication in high noise areas. These are called level dependant or active muffs and electronic communication earmuffs.
SHS earmuffs offer versatility. They can be worn as headband, neckband and cap attachable styles.
Indeed today we are seeing a new wave of hearing protection that incorporates new technologies such as electronic systems & communications. We can block out certain frequencies (unwanted noise) and amplify sound (wanted sound such as someone specking). AMFM radios are common place for isolated workers, manufacturing lines and plant operators. There are short wave head sets with channels, and others that simply connect to two way radio systems such as the popular Motorola's, ICOM and many more.

18. Ear Muff Comfort and Fit
Hearing Protection
Ear Muff Comfort and Fit
Earmuffs can be less comfortable in very hot weather. Remember you can use sweat absorbing cushions
When wearing spectacles check cushion seal for best results
Earmuffs do require some maintenance. Cushions must be replaced every 6 months (AS/NZS1269.3:2005) to ensure the seal and acoustics are maintained. These kits are called Hygiene kits
Earmuffs can be sweaty in hot weather. Some people find them uncomfortable from the pressure on the head. Muffs that don’t seal well can leak noise into the ear. SHS recommend the use of sweat cushions. These are not only used in hot climates. They add extra comfort to the muff extend cushion life and absorb sweat.

19. Headband should sit straight on the head.
How do you properly fit earmuffs?
Headband
Again, in order to protect yourself from noise induced hearing loss, earmuffs need to be fitted properly.
Place the earmuffs over the ears and adjust the height of the cups while holding the headband down.
The headband should sit straight on the head as demonstrated in this illustration.
Position earmuffs over the ears. Adjust height of cups while holding headband down to fit.
Headband should sit straight on the head.

20. Position earmuffs over the ears with the band behind the neck.
How do you properly fit earmuffs?
Neckband
In order to fit neckband earmuffs, you need to…
Place the earmuffs over the ears with the band behind the neck and then adjust the height of the cups with the head strap for a snug fit.
Position earmuffs over the ears with the band behind the neck.
Adjust height of cups with the head strap for a tight, comfortable fit.

21. Fitting Safety Cap 1
Insert headband into slots until it snaps in place 2
‘Working’ or ‘In Use’ position 3
‘Storage’ or ‘Parking’ position

22. How do you replace earmuff cushions?
Pull off ear cushion and remove absorber.
Let’s look at how to replace earmuff cushions…
Firstly, pull off the ear cushion and remove the absorber.
Replace the new parts as shown in the illustration.
Snap the new parts firmly into place and it’s ready to go.
Replace with new parts.
Snap into place and press firmly.

23. Care of Ear Muffs Ear Muffs
Wash with warm soapy water and dry thoroughly.
Check regularly for cracks, shrinkage, hardening, or permanent deformities.
Replace cushions and linings every six months or if any signs of wear are noticed.
Store ear muffs in a carry case

24. Zone series - Industrial -colour coded performance
UniSafe Hearing Protection
Zone series - Industrial -colour coded performance
UniTune AM/FM
Plugs, & band
Trades
Zone 1
Zone 2
[You can simply show employees the hearing protection you have available.]
Zone 3

25. Common Questions Do HPD’s inhibit communication?
Do hearing aids work like a HPD?
Can portable music devices harm my hearing?
How is hearing tested?
If you wear a muff and a plug combined what sort of additional protection does it give?
[You can simply show employees the hearing protection you have available.]

26. How can you hear anything with Ear Muffs on?
Hearing Protection
How can you hear anything with Ear Muffs on?
Using earmuffs or plugs in noisy areas can make it easier to hear coworkers or machinery.
They reduce overwhelming loud background noise.
To help achieve this , it is critical to get the selection process right, and not over attenuate. The other alternative is “active” hearing protection products.
Loud background noise can overwhelm the ears making it difficult to hear a coworker. When used correctly earplugs or muffs mute the background noise so that a coworker or warning bell is actually easier to hear.
People who have some hearing loss will have more difficulty hearing while wearing plugs or muffs. Special muffs are available that make it easier for these individuals to hear while wearing hearing protection. Talk about active or level dependant hearing protectors.

27. Hearing Aids are not Hearing Protection
Hearing aids do not block out enough sound for most workplace noise.
Some hearing aids can actually increase the noise level at the ear.
Just turning off the hearing aids will not prevent further hearing loss from noise exposure.
Some people with hearing loss think that if they just turn off their hearing aid they will not suffer any more hearing loss since they are already deaf. More noise exposure will only make their hearing loss worse. Some of the newer digital hearing aids have detectors that can instantly turn off or turn down in high noise areas. Users of these devices should check with their audiologist or hearing aid vendor.

28. Portable Radios/CD/MP3 Players
Hearing Protection
Portable Radios/CD/MP3 Players
DO NOT provide protection from noise.
The earphones are not earmuffs and the music only adds to background other noise.
These products are often measure to >95+ decibels alone.
“Some people have the mistaken idea that these devices can act as hearing protection, since they do drown out quieter background sounds. But they don’t really drown out louder background noise.
A recent study done on national TV (ABC quoting the National Accoustics laboratories):
That glassy stare. The failure to respond to outside stimuli. No, they're not being remotely controlled from another planet. They’re commuters listening to personal stereo players (iPods, other MP3 players and Walkmans) on their way to work. Hey, it beats listening to the traffic.
But there's a downside. A quarter of them could be damaging their hearing because the music volume is too high.
That’s the conclusion of a recent study from the National Acoustic Laboratories, which recently tested the noise volume that city workers were experiencing from their personal stereo players (PSPs) and compared them to a benchmark level considered safe.
"I worry about the teenager who's going to be 23, 24, 25 years old and has a measurable noise-induced hearing loss and now has another 60-something years to live with his hearing which is only going to get worse," said Fligor, who will present his study on Thursday to a conference in Cincinnati”

29. What is Audiometric Testing?
“Audiometric testing” is the same thing as “hearing tests”.
It is done by trained technicians to detect any hearing loss.
Audiometric testing is required by regulation and is recommended every 2 years
“Audiometric testing is required of all employees exposed to 8-hour average noise levels of 85 decibels or above.”

30. Purpose of Audiometric Testing
Most of us develop a mild hearing loss as we age, especially in the higher pitches.
A severe or significant hearing loss at a younger age may mean you have had excessive noise exposure.
Audiometric testing done yearly / bi-yearly can detect early stages of hearing loss.
“Excessive noise exposure can occur at work – or at home. Home activities that include exposure to excessive noise include use of woodworking equipment or chain saws, gun target practice, motorcycle riding, attending rock concerts, or use of headphones with loud music. “
[Be sure that you have identified noise areas at your workplace and you know that employees are wearing hearing protection properly at all times when exposed to noise. Don’t be too quick to blame hearing loss on home exposure until you know you have controlled employee noise exposure at work.]

31. Purpose of Audiometric Testing
Audiometric testing results can be used to check the following:
If the hearing protection in use is adequate,
If there is a change in noise exposure,
If there is a medical condition of the ear unrelated to noise exposure.
“Hearing loss can also be caused by ear infections, excessive wax in the ear, or other medical conditions, certain drugs(including some antibiotics), or a hereditary condition. If a hearing loss is detected through audiometric testing, a medical exam is scheduled to determine the cause. If the cause is not medically related, it could be that you are exposed to excessive noise at home or at work. It is important to always wear your hearing protection in noisy areas, that it is adequate for the noise level, and that it is worn properly”

32. How does Audiometric Testing work?
When you are first hired, a baseline test is taken.
The testing is repeated every year after that and compared to the baseline test result.
If a hearing loss is detected, you will be referred to a doctor or audiologist.
Regulations require that the baseline test must be taken within 6 months of first employment. At our company we do baseline testing.” when testing done here. It is recommended that baseline testing be done at the beginning of employment.
“The doctor will check out the cause of the hearing loss and determine if it is caused by a medical problem. If there is not a medical problem, then the hearing loss is most likely due to exposure to excessive noise. We will investigate further whether that exposure is happening at work”.

33. The overall effect is 3-5dB One of our earmuffs & plug combined:
Combining Ear Muffs and Plugs
According to the national acoustic laboratory (March 1998) and AS/NZS 1269:2005:
The overall effect is 3-5dB One of our earmuffs & plug combined:
Frequency
125
250
500
1000
2000
4000
8000
SLC80
Class
Mean
28.7
34.6
42.1
39.1
50.7
39.9
Std Dev.
5.4
5.9
7.7
4.7
4.1 36 5
Mean SD
23.3
29.2
36.2
31.4
37.4
46.6
35.2
It is very important to understand this table not class and SLC rating will be identified on packaging or instructions for use. The frequency and corresponding performance of the HPD are important data in matching the device to your environment.
Combining a plug with an earmuff offers better protection, but limited to around 3-5 dB greater than the earmuff

34. Stay Tuned for the final installment the Noise Quiz.
“All these answers are correct. If the noise level is over 85 decibels, it can be difficult to carry on a conversation. Hearing loss is an inevitable result of long-term noise exposure. Ringing in the ears is also called ‘tinnitus’. Studies have shown that exposure to excessive noise can be stressful.”