The hierarchy of hazard control is an upside-down pyramid with elimination at the top. The least effective measure is PPE, which sits at the bottom of the pyramid. However, noise control measures aren’t always easy to implement, as they’re not as effective as prevention. Here are some ways to use Safety Hearing Protection (SHP) to reduce noise levels in the workplace. Read on to learn more. You may also be interested in reading this article: Foam Earplugs
Foam earplugs
Foam earplugs are one of the cheapest types of safety hearing protection and they can be found in bulk sets of 200 or more. They are designed to block noise and are ideal for sleeping or blocking environmental nuisances. These plugs are typically made of memory foam and are inserted using a roll-up method. Once inserted, the plugs remain in place until they are fully expanded. To ensure maximum effectiveness, choose earplugs that are sizeable enough to fit your ears.
Unlike traditional earplugs, foam earplugs are more comfortable than their rubber counterparts. They are made of extra-soft, flexible foam that fits comfortably into the ear canal without irritating it. In addition to offering comfortable hearing protection, foam earplugs can also be reusable. Mack’s foam earplugs offer up to 33 dB of protection and can last for two to three uses before needing to be replaced.
The safety hearing protection foam earplugs have three different styles. A typical style is cone-shaped and rounded to create a seal around the entrance to the ear. They can be used in a variety of jobs, including power tools, quieter tasks, and even at home. The over-the-ear version is another type of hearing protection. It works by covering the ear without inserting anything into the ear. Some models use rigid headbands while others use soft foam pads over the ears. This style is effective in reducing exposure to loud noises but doesn’t provide the same level of protection.
Canal caps
Canal caps are reusable ear plugs with a flexible headband. They are worn over the head, behind the neck, or under the chin. While they don’t seal the ear canal entirely, they are a convenient option for occasional removal. Like earplugs, canal caps can be uncomfortable after extended use. These products may not be sanitary or hygienic, but they do protect hearing.
While there are a number of benefits of ear plugs, they may not be suitable for some people. Pre-molded plugs are cheap, convenient, and washable, but they may not fit someone with an ear problem. Canal caps look like earplugs on a headband, but they may have a premolded or formable tip. Unlike ear plugs, canal caps are more secure in the ear and keep the worker cooler than earplugs.
Ear plugs and canal caps can be used in a variety of activities, and the noise reduction ratings of these devices vary widely. Ear plugs are commonly sold in bulk, and they can either be foam or silicone. Foam ear plugs tend to be more flexible than silicone ones, but they are still a good option for safety hearing protection. Most foam ear plugs come with an NRR, but many people find them uncomfortable or unsuitable.
Noise-reducing communication headsets
Safety hearing protection is essential for workers in noisy workplaces, and noise-reducing communication headsets are the best solution. They can be used on a hands-free basis to communicate with colleagues while maintaining privacy and avoiding distraction. Noise-reducing headsets help maintain communication within the workspace, as well as teamwork in noisy settings. Noise-reducing communication headsets are designed to reduce incoming and outgoing noise levels, and are available in over-the-head and hard hat styles.
A good choice for moderate-to-high noise conditions is the UltraLite, which takes in-coming radio communications directly to the ear. Its design optimizes discretion in surveillance applications while providing clear, reliable sound. Noise-reducing communication headsets are generally made of military-hardened materials. The UltraLite is compatible with both light and moderate-level noise environments, ranging from 85 to 95 decibels. It uses a Filtered Covert or Convertible-Y Vented earpiece that blocks out high-frequency energy.
Noise-reducing communication headsets can help you achieve better productivity in your workplace. They help reduce external loud noises by up to 70 dB. The technology inside the headset also limits the intensity of sound waves as they enter and exit the ear. The headsets will improve the ability to communicate with colleagues and improve concentration levels. The audio quality of noise-reducing communication headsets is also a big plus in many cases.
