Hearing Protection
Toolbox Talks are intended to facilitate health and safety discussions.
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Discussion Date:
General Information
When you are exposed to loud noises over long periods of time, you are at an
increased risk of losing your ability to hear. Once the nerves of the inner ear
are destroyed or damaged from exposure to excessive noise, the damage is Supervisor:
permanent. It does not matter where you are exposed to excessive loud noise
– it can occur at work, at home, or at play. Power tools, recreational
equipment, musical bands or headphones can all generate excessive noise.
Participants:
How to Reduce Sound Levels
Sound is additive. Reducing the number of noise sources will reduce
exposure to noise.
Sound levels can sometimes be reduced by installing sound absorption
materials or by reducing the amount of vibration of equipment.
Types of Hearing Protection Devices
Never use cotton, stereo headsets, or other makeshift hearing protectors. They
do not protect your ears from noise. Use one of the following:
Earplugs: Insert into the ear canal to seal out noise. Be sure to
follow the manufacturer’s instructions. They may be disposable or
reusable.
DISPOSABLE
S
RE-USABLE
Earmuffs: Earmuffs are the best protectors. They have a headband
with cushioned plastic cups that cover each ear. However, they may
feel bulky or uncomfortable in hot weather.
(515) 294-5359 | ehsinfo@iastate.edu | www.ehs.iastate.edu | ©2020
Hearing Protection
Canal Caps: Cover and seal the ear canal entrance with soft flexible pads on a lightweight
headband. Though comfortable, they provide the least protection.
Earmuffs and Earplugs: In combination may be needed in some high-noise areas.
Allowable Exposure Limits
Noise Allowable Exposure
Level Time
85 dB 16 hours
90 dB 8 hours
95 dB 4 hours
100 dB 2 hour
105 dB 1 hour
110 dB 30 minutes
115 dB 15 minutes or less
Sound Comparison Chart
Decibel
Noise Source Affects
Level
Breathing 10 Barely audible
Rustling leaves 20
Bird calls 40 1/8 as loud as 70 dB
Normal
55 1/2 as loud as 70 dB
conversation
Hearing Vacuum cleaner 70
Protection 85
Needed Light damage if exposed
Lawn mower 90
for 8 hours
Farm tractor 100
Rock concert 115
Painful, 32 times louder
Chain saw 120
than 70 dB
Jet taking off 150 Eardrum rupture
Discussion Topics
What is the primary source of noise in your work area?
What action can be taken to reduce the level of noise in your work area?
Where can you find hearing protection and what type is available to you?
Does your hearing protection properly fit?
(515) 294-5359 | ehsinfo@iastate.edu | www.ehs.iastate.edu | ©2020
