Noise Hazards in Construction
Construction sites are among the noisiest workplaces:
- Jackhammers can reach 130 decibels
- Power tools typically range from 90-110 decibels
- Heavy equipment often exceeds 85 decibels
- Even brief exposure to loud noise can cause damage
Understanding Noise Levels
Sound is measured in decibels (dB):
- Normal conversation: 60 dB
- Heavy traffic: 85 dB
- Power tools: 90-110 dB
- Impact tools: 120-130 dB
OSHA requires hearing protection when:
- Noise levels average 85 dB over an 8-hour day (action level)
- Noise levels average 90 dB over an 8-hour day (permissible exposure limit)
How Hearing Damage Happens
Hearing loss from construction noise:
- Usually happens gradually over time
- Is permanent and irreversible
- Often isn't noticed until significant damage has occurred
- Can happen from a single loud noise event
- Gets worse with continued exposure
Warning signs of hearing damage:
- Ringing or buzzing in ears after work (tinnitus)
- Having to shout to be heard by someone 3 feet away
- Speech or other sounds seem muffled
- Difficulty understanding conversations in noisy areas
- Turning up TV or radio louder than others prefer
Types of Hearing Protection
Earplugs
- Insert into the ear canal
- Typically reduce noise by 20-30 dB
- Can be disposable foam or reusable
- Must be inserted properly to be effective
- Good for warm environments and confined spaces
Earmuffs
- Cover the entire outer ear
- Typically reduce noise by 15-30 dB
- Easier to put on and take off
- May be hot in warm environments
- Can be worn with other PPE like hard hats
Canal Caps
- Like earplugs on a band
- Typically reduce noise by 15-25 dB
- Easy to remove and reinsert
- Good for moving in and out of noisy areas
- Less protection than properly fitted earplugs
Noise Reduction Rating (NRR)
All hearing protection has an NRR number on the package:
- Higher numbers mean greater protection
- Actual protection is typically less than the NRR
- To estimate real-world protection: (NRR - 7) ÷ 2
- Wearing both earplugs and earmuffs adds only 5 dB more protection
Proper Use of Hearing Protection
Foam Earplugs
- Roll the earplug into a thin, crease-free cylinder
- Reach over your head with opposite hand and pull up on your ear
- Insert the earplug well into the ear canal
- Hold in place until it expands (30+ seconds)
Reusable Earplugs
- Reach over your head with opposite hand and pull up on your ear
- Insert the earplug until it seals the ear canal
- Twist slightly to ensure proper fit
Earmuffs
- Make sure no hair is between the seal and your head
- Adjust the headband for a snug fit
- Ensure the entire ear is inside the cup
- Check for gaps in the seal
Common Hearing Protection Mistakes
- Not wearing protection consistently (even brief exposure can cause damage)
- Inserting earplugs incorrectly
- Using damaged or dirty protection
- Removing protection in noisy areas to talk
- Choosing uncomfortable protection that you won't wear
- Not replacing disposable earplugs when soiled
Employer Responsibilities
Your employer should:
- Measure noise levels to identify hazardous areas
- Provide appropriate hearing protection at no cost to you
- Train you on proper use and care of hearing protectors
- Post warning signs in high-noise areas
- Offer hearing tests (audiometric testing) in some cases
- Keep records of noise exposure measurements
Your Responsibilities
As a worker, you should:
- Wear hearing protection when required
- Maintain and clean reusable protectors
- Report any issues with hearing protection
- Attend training on hearing conservation
- Report signs of hearing problems promptly
- Use hearing protection off the job when doing noisy activities
Protecting Your Hearing Off the Job
Noise exposure adds up both on and off work:
- Wear hearing protection when using power tools at home
- Turn down the volume on personal music devices
- Wear earplugs at concerts, sporting events, or when riding motorcycles
- Avoid noisy activities after work when possible
- Give your ears time to recover after noise exposure