Hearing protection should be provided when the noise level within the working environment cannot be suitably controlled with other means. However, hearing protection should not be used in isolation. Technical and organisational means of noise reduction must always be considered first, where possible.

Hearing protection is mandatory within an environment where the noise level is about 85db(A) (time weighted average). Hearing protection zones and signage to indicate the mandatory use of hearing protection must also be implemented.

It is important that you select hearing protection that is suitable for our working environment.

Hearing protection that does not offer enough noise reduction will not suitably protect the hearing and ma lead to issues such as hearing loss and tinnitus. However, issuing hearing protection that offers too much noise reduction can also be dangerous and may result in alarm systems, such as the fire alarm, being missed.

If you would like any further information, or support with identifying any hearing protection requirements, please feel free to get in touch.