Hearing Conservation

Overview

Hearing conservation protects workers from noise-induced hearing loss, one of the most common occupational injuries. Exposure to loud noise over time causes permanent, irreversible damage that affects quality of life both at work and at home.

Why This Is Important

Once hearing damage occurs, it cannot be repaired or reversed. Noise-induced hearing loss develops gradually, so workers may not notice the damage until significant hearing is already lost. This condition affects communication, safety, and personal relationships throughout life.

Protecting hearing requires consistent use of hearing protection and awareness of noise hazards. Prevention is the only effective treatment for noise-induced hearing loss, making hearing conservation critical for every worker exposed to loud environments.

22M

Exposed Workers

NIOSH estimates 22 million workers are exposed to hazardous noise levels annually, with construction and manufacturing workers facing the highest risks

120dB

Damage Threshold

Immediate damage can occur at 120 decibels, with safe exposure time decreasing rapidly as noise levels increase

Best Practices & Safety Tips

Noise Assessment

Identify work areas and equipment that produce harmful noise levels above 85 decibels.

Protection Selection

Choose appropriate hearing protection based on noise levels and work requirements.

Proper Fitting

Ensure hearing protection fits correctly and provides adequate noise reduction rating.

Consistent Use

Wear protection consistently throughout exposure periods - even brief removal reduces effectiveness.

Protection Methods

Follow workplace noise exposure limits and protection requirements consistently
Clean and store hearing protection devices properly to maintain effectiveness
Report any hearing difficulties, ringing, or pain promptly to supervisors
Use engineering controls like sound barriers or quieter equipment when available
Avoid using personal music devices at high volumes, especially after noise exposure

Warning Signs

Temporary hearing loss after work
Ringing or buzzing in ears (tinnitus)
Difficulty understanding speech
Need to turn up TV or radio volume
Asking people to repeat conversations

Noise Exposure Guidelines

Safe Exposure Times by Noise Level:

85 dB: 8 hours (workplace action level)
90 dB: 4 hours (typical power tools)
95 dB: 2 hours
100 dB: 1 hour (chainsaws, jackhammers)
105 dB: 30 minutes
110 dB: 15 minutes
120 dB: Immediate damage threshold

Discussion Questions

What noisy equipment or work areas do you encounter, and how do you protect your hearing?
How do you ensure your hearing protection fits properly and provides adequate protection?
Have you noticed any changes in your hearing, such as ringing or difficulty understanding speech?
How can we improve hearing conservation awareness and compliance on our job sites?
What challenges do you face in wearing hearing protection consistently throughout your work shift?

Action Items

Identify all work areas and equipment requiring hearing protection
Ensure appropriate hearing protection is available and properly fitted for all workers
Review noise exposure monitoring and audiometric testing procedures
Establish protocols for reporting hearing changes or protection issues

Personal Protective Equipment - Comprehensive PPE selection including hearing protection
Hand and Power Tool Safety - Noise control when using loud equipment

Hearing Health Message: Protect your hearing now to avoid permanent loss that affects your entire life. Use appropriate hearing protection consistently, limit exposure time when possible, and report hearing changes immediately. Your hearing is irreplaceable - once it’s gone, it’s gone forever.