On a jobsite there are a hundred sounds at any given time. Those sounds include use of hand tools, running equipment, shouted conversations, and many others. Paying attention to these sounds can help people to stay safe on a jobsite. However, some of the noises present can actually cause damage to our ability to hear. Exposure to loud noise can lead to loss of hearing down the road. Our work does not require that we wear hearing protection, however it can still be helpful to do so. Some tasks such as cutting steel with a chop saw or grinder, running powder actuated tools, and loud activities from other trades can be protected against with the appropriate use of earplugs. If you are going to be around loud noises during your workday, take a minute to locate earplugs (this does not include earbuds or other music devices). Other good practices include not listening to music too loudly.
Sustained exposure to sounds at 90-95 decibels over a time-weighted average can start to cause hearing loss. Examples of this level of noise include jackhammers even at distances of 50 feet, train whistles, hand drills, power lawn mowers, motorcycles, power saws, rock concerts, etc. Pain will begin at sound levels of 125 decibels. At 140 decibels, permanent damage can be caused by even short term exposure. This includes gunfire and jet engines. Our first approach to hearing protection on the job is NOT wearing ear plugs. We should first attempt to eliminate the loud noise so there’s no exposure at all. If that’s not possible, we should attempt to isolate the noise and reduce the surrounding exposure with controls like guards or plexi-shields. If there’s no way to eliminate, substitute, or control the noise exposure, then we move to using ear plugs. Ensure your earplugs are adequate for your work and noise exposure. We as your employer will provide ear plugs, so just ask your Foreman for a pair!
Our ability to hear is closely tied to many of the things we enjoy. Music, movies, socializing, along with almost all other parts of life are directly affected by our ability to hear. Things like balance and depth perception are also directly related to our ability to hear. Make sure that you take care of your hearing so that you can enjoy it for the rest of your life!
