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HEARING PROTECTION EAR PLUGS A01003. A01001. A01001 / A01003. Uvex X-Fit Disposable Earplug Ergonomically shaped disposable earplug. Soft foam for comfort during extended periods of wear. Innovative X emboss reduces pressure on the ear canal for enhanced comfort. High levels of sound absorption, making it particularly suitable for loud environments. Sealed surface reduces the potential for contamination. Available in uncorded (A01001) and corded (A01003) versions STANDARD: EN352-2, SNR 37dB ColourS: Lemon / Blue (Cord) UOM: Pair / 200 Pair Box (Uncorded) Pair / 100 Pair Box (Corded) A10002. Ships from Stock A01002. A10002 / A01002. Uvex Earplug Dispenser / refill pack Easy to use, robust, wall mounted dispenser for Uvex disposable earplugs. Highly visible. Earplugs are dispensed with a simple, twist mechanism which eliminates waste. Clear earplug container for easy contents monitoring. Earplugs sold separately. Easy to fill using bulk refill packs (200 pairs). ColourS: Lemon (Earplugs) / Blue (Dispenser) STANDARD: EN352-2, SNR 37dB UOM: A10002 - 1 dispenser. A01002 - 200 Pairs Ships from Stock A01004 (Pillowpack). A01004 / A01005 / A01006. E.A.R Classic Earplug A01005 (Refill Bottle). Comfortable, disposable earplug with consistent attenuation. Moisture resistant, dermatologically safe foam. Slow recovery PVC foam provides comfort and low pressure. STANDARD: EN352-2, SNR 28dB ColourS: Yellow UOM: Pair (Pillowpack); 500 Pairs (Top Up Box); 500 Pairs (Refill Bottle). A01006 (Top Up Box). Ships from Stock A10003. E.A.R One Touch Dispenser ‘One Touch’ dispenser can be used with all earplugs in the E.A.R disposable range. Gives control over issues such as waste, excess packaging, waste and related costs. Transparent refill fits directly onto the dispenser. Easy to use with a simple twist motion. A10003. ColourS: Yellow UOM: 500 Pairs Ships from Stock A10004. E.A.R Wall Mounted Dispenser Plastic wall mounted dispenser for Classic® earplug pillow packs. Easy to fix to wall or other permanent position. Holds 250 pillow pack pairs (sold separately). UOM: 250 Pillow Pack Pairs. Ships from Stock A10004. A01007 / A01008. E.A.Rsoft Neon Earplug STANDARD: EN352-2, SNR 36dB ColourS: Lemon (Earplug) Blue (Cord) A01007. EAR PLUGS Designed to provide the ultimate in comfort and protection. Soft, tapered earplug for easy fitting. Provides an even distributed pressure, giving flexibility and a good seal. Self-adjusting foam provides low pressure and excellent attenuation. Dermatologically safe foam is non-irritating. Available in uncorded (A01007) and corded (A01008) versions. Corded version with easy to see blue, soft vinyl cord. A01008. UOM: Pair / 200 Pair Box A01009. E.A.R Cabocord Earplug Comfortable, disposable earplug with consistent attenuation. Moisture resistant, dermatologically safe foam is non-irritating. Slow recovery PVC foam provides comfort and low pressure. Easy to see, blue, soft vinyl cord. STANDARD: EN352-2, SNR 29dB ColourS: Lemon (Earplug) Blue (Cord) UOM: Pair / 200 Pair Box Ships from Stock SALES HOTLINE 1850 303 304 A01009. EAR PLUGS A01010. E.A.Rsoft 21 Earplug A01010. Soft, comfortable earplugs providing high levels of protection. No roll down required for a correct fit every time. Maximum comfort with consistent attenuation. Dermatologically safe foam is non-irritating. 100% recyclable. STANDARD: EN352-2, SNR 21dB ColourS: Yellow UOM: 10 Pair Box. A02001. E.A.R UltraTech Earplug A02001. Inexpensive, reuseable musician’s earplug. Allows outside vocal or musical tones to be heard through a stem resonator. Improved ability to perceive speech, warning signals and machinery noise. No roll down required for insertion. The acoustic design provides the low distortion advantages of flat attenuation. Triple flange design provides all day comfort. Ideal for use in areas where other products may over protect. Moisture resistant and recyclable. STANDARD: EN352-2, SNR 21dB ColourS: Clear/Black UOM: 10 Pair Box A02002. E.A.R UltraFit Earplug Pre-moulded, triple flange design – conforms easily to the ear canal for a consistent fit and increased attenuation. Advanced polymer material for maximum durability. Washable, reuseable and recyclable. Non-toxic and non-allergenic. STANDARD: EN352-2, SNR 32dB ColourS: Blue UOM: Pair / 50 Pair Box A02002. Ships from Stock A02003. Uvex Whisper Reusable Earplug - Corded A02003. Reusable, economical and comfortable earplug with cord. Preshaped and preformed – no roll-down required. Available with an hygienic storage box. Washable for repeated and hygienic use. Offers an excellent level of speech recognition. STANDARD: EN352-2, SNR 23dB ColourS: Orange UOM: Pair / 50 Pair Box Ships from Stock A01011. Uvex Hi-Com Disposable Earplug Low attenuation, PU foam, disposable earplug. Excellent speech and warning signal recognition. Reduced risk of over protection. Shaped to match the shape of the ear canal for maximum comfort. STANDARD: EN352-2, SNR 24dB ColourS: Lime A01011. UOM: Pair / 200 Pair Box A04001 / A04002. Uvex X-Cap Banded Protector A04001. Comfortable, lightweight, practical banded hearing protection. Washable oval-shaped pods match the shape of the ear canal entrance for comfort. Ergonomically designed band for easy fitting. Supplied in an hygienic, zip lock storage bag. Replacement ear pods available (A04002). STANDARD: EN352-2, SNR 24dB ColourS: Lime/Orange (Pods) Blue (Band) UOM:1 / 10 per Box (X-Cap) 100 Pair Box / 200 Pair Case (Replacement Pods) Ships from Stock A04003. E.A.RCap Banded Earplug Lightweight, comfortable and easy-to-use reusable ear plugs. Provide day-long protection against high noise levels. Ideal as disposable protectors for visitors. No roll down required. Replacement pods available. A04003. STANDARD: EN352-2, SNR 23dB ColourS: Yellow (Pods) Blue (Band) UOM: Pair / 40 Pair Box. Ships from Stock A04004. E.A.RFlex 14 Banded Earplug Convenient, banded, low attenuation reusable earplug. No roll down required. Moisture resistant and recyclable. STANDARD: EN352-2, SNR 14dB ColourS: Clear (Pods) Green (Band) UOM: Pair / 40 Pair Box Ships from Stock SALES HOTLINE 1850 303 304 A04004. EAR PLUGS A04002. EAR PLUGS A04005. E.A.RFlex 20 Banded Earplug A04005. Convenient, banded earplug. Provides optimum attenuation without blocking conversation and broadcast music. Washable pods for hygienic reuse. No roll down required. Moisture resistant and recyclable. STANDARD: EN352-2, SNR 20dB ColourS: Yellow UOM: Pair / 40 Pair Box A03001. Uvex X-Fit Detectable Earplug A03001. Detectable, highly visible, disposable earplug for economical, comfortable protection. Blue with a non-ferrous detectable component, make it ideal for both visual and automated inspection systems. Sealed foam surface for comfort. Corded for increased security and convenience. STANDARD: EN352-2, SNR 37dB ColourS: Blue UOM: Pair / 100 Pair Box Ships from Stock A03002. Uvex Whisper Detectable Earplug Detectable, highly visible, reusable earplug for economical, comfortable protection. Blue with a non-ferrous detectable component, make it ideal for both visual and automated inspection systems. Preshaped and preformed – no roll down necessary. Offers an excellent level of speech recognition. Corded for increased security and convenience. A03002. STANDARD: EN352-2, SNR 24dB ColourS: Blue UOM: Pair / 50 Pair Box Ships from Stock A03003. E.A.R Tracer 20 Earplug Reuseable, low attenuating, metal detectable earplug with blue vinyl cord. Triple flange design for comfortable, consistent fit and protection. Ideal in lower noise levels and in the food manufacturing industry. Advanced polymer material for maximum durability. Washable, reuseable and recyclable. Non-toxic and non-allergenic. Non-ferrous filter. A03003. STANDARD: EN352-2, SNR 20dB ColourS: Blue UOM: Pair / 50 Pair Box A03004. E.A.R Tracers Corded Earplug Reuseable, metal detectable earplug with blue vinyl cord. Triple flange design for comfortable, consistent fit and protection. Designed for the food manufacturing industry. A 2.75mm steel ball is securely positioned in the stem of the earplug. Advanced polymer material for maximum durability. Washable, reuseable and recyclable. Non-toxic and non-allergenic. A03004. STANDARD: EN352-2, SNR 32dB ColourS: Blue UOM: Pair / 50 Pair Box A03005. E.A.Rsoft Metal Detectable Earplug Disposable, metal detectable earplug. Designed for the food manufacturing industry. Contains an integral stainless steel ball in the earplug and a fully metal detectable cord. Traceable either visually or by a metal detecting device. Manufactured from smooth, tapered polyurenthane. Non-tox and non-allergenic. A03005. STANDARD: EN352-2, SNR 36dB DETECTABLE EAR PLUGS ColourS: White (Earplug) Blue (Cord) UOM: Pair / 50 Pair Box A05001. CustomEAR Moulded Earplug The ultimate in personal fit, protection and comfort. Earplugs made for individual ear canals without a long wait. Fitted on-site in minutes. Protection provided is computer validated. Protection can be custom-calibrated with the insertion of a filter into the earplug chamber. A variety of filters are available to meet a range of “hear-through” needs. Soft, hypoallergenic polymer for extended comfort. ColourS: Yellow SALES HOTLINE 1850 303 304 A05001. EARMUFFS A10001. E.A.Rfit Validation System Earplug fit testing service provides hearing protection factors for certain earplugs. Test compatible with a selection of E.A.R earplugs. Dual element microphone measures sound inside and outside the ear. Advanced algorithm utilises transfer function measurement approach to acquire reliable data in less than 8 seconds. Patented application software provides enhanced metrics for guidance and the application of measured insertion loss values. Contact your Anderco representative for further details. A06001 . Economy Earmuff Modern design and high standard of finishing. Comfortable, adjustable headband for correct fitting. Effective, comfortable protection during long periods of wear. A06001. STANDARD: EN352-3, SNR 31dB ColourS: Red Ships from Stock A07001. Cliptite Helmet Mounted Earmuff A07001. Can be fitted to most helmet types with a suitable adapter. Comes as standard with a mounting kit to suit Mark III Comfort Plus and Optipro helmets. Black cups with foam lining and comfort pads. Cups mounted on tensioned, adjustable arms for effective fitting. Swivel attachment allows the ear defenders to be individually lifted. STANDARD: EN352-3, SNR 27dB ColourS: Black Ships from Stock A06003 A06002 A07002 A07003 A06004 Folding Headband Neckband Helmet Attachment 3E Helmet Attachment 3G Hi Vis Peltor Optime I Earmuff Lightweight, versatile, low profile hearing protection. Suitable for environments with moderate industrial noise and for outdoor use. The wide, comfortable sealing rings are filled with a unique combination of fluid and foam for optimum sealing and low contact pressure, ensuring the best possible comfort during long periods of use. Headband model has soft padded cushion headband and stainless steel spring for extra comfort during long term use. Folding headband model has sealing rings that are protected against soiling and damage and takes up little storage space. Neckband model combines easily with other protective equipment such as a welding shield. Helmet attachement model includes a helmet slot attachement and can be set in the working, airing or park position. Available in Hi Vis Green for wearers who need to protect their hearing and be extra visible - on road construction sites, airports and other high risk places. Helmet attachments suitable for use with Optipro, Peltor and Protector range of helmets. STANDARD: EN352-3, SNR 26dB (Neckband); SNR 28dB (Folding Headband); SNR 26dB (Helmet Attachement). ColourS: Yellow, Hi Viz Green A06006 Folding Headband A06005 Neckband A07004 Helmet Attachment 3E A07005 Helmet Attachment 3G A06007 Hi Vis Peltor Optime II Earmuff Developed for demanding noise-hazard environments and muffles even extremely low frequencies to a maximum degree. Low profile with generous inside depth for comfort. The wide, comfortable sealing rings are filled with a unique combination of fluid and foam for optimum sealing and low contact pressure, ensuring the best possible comfort during long periods of use. Headband model has soft padded cushion headband and stainless steel spring for extra comfort during long term use and seamless adjustment for a smooth fit to the shape of the head. Folding headband model has sealing rings that are protected against soiling and damage and takes up little storage space. Neckband model combines easily with other protective equipment such as a welding shield. Helmet attachement model includes a helmet slot attachement, an attachment for visor and rain protection and can be set in the working, airing or park position. Available in Hi Vis Green (Headband model) for wearers who need to protect their hearing and be extra visible - on road construction sites, airports and other high risk workplaces. Helmet attachments suitable for use with Optipro, Peltor and Protector range of helmets. STANDARD: EN352-3, SNR 31dB (Folding Headband, Neckband); SNR 30dB (Helmet Attachement). ColourS: Green, Hi Viz Green Ships from Stock IN GREEN SALES HOTLINE 1850 303 304 EARMUFFS Ships from Stock IN YELLOW COMMUNICATIONS EARMUFFS A06008 A06009 A07006 A07007 A06010 Folding Headband Neckband Helmet Attachment 3E Helmet Attachment 3G Hi Vis Peltor Optime III Earmuff Developed for extremely noisy environments to provide effective protection with maximum comfort. Double casing minimises resonance for maximum frequency muffling while making it easy to understand speech and signals. An acoustic connection between the inner volume and the volume between the casings provides maximum low frequency muffling. The wide, comfortable sealing rings are filled with a unique combination of fluid and foam for optimum sealing and low contact pressure, ensuring the best possible comfort during long periods of use. Headband model has soft padded cushion headband and stainless steel spring for extra comfort during long term use and seamless adjustment for a smooth fit to the shape of the head. Neckband model is easily adjustable with no protruding part for comfortable use with other protective equipment. Helmet attachement model includes a helmet slot attachement, an attachment for visor and rain protection and can be set in the working, airing or park position. Available in Hi Vis Green (Headband Model) for wearers who need to protect their hearing and be extra visible - on road construction sites, airports and other high risk workplaces. Helmet attachments suitable for use with Optipro, Peltor and Protector range of helmets. STANDARD: EN352-3, SNR 35dB (Headband, Neckband); SNR 34dB (Helmet Attachement). A09001. ColourS: Black/Red, Hi Vis Green. Ships from Stock IN Black/Red A09001. Peltor FM Radio Earmuff Protect your hearing and listen to the radio at the same time. Excellent FM reception. Extra wide, soft, padded heaband distributes weight while 2-point suspension exerts low pressure for comfort. Soft, liquid and foam-filled ear cushions for additional comfort. Battery life approximately 200 hours. Audio input for mobile phone, portable phone or communicaiton radio (some models), MP3 players etc. STANDARD: EN352-3, SNR 32dB ColourS: Dark Red 10 11 A09002. Peltor Sporttac Earmuff A09002. Developed specifically for hunters and marksmen. Protect against harmful noise while letting in and even amplifying ambient sounds. Sudden impluse noise at harmful levels are immediately attenuated. Interchangeable shells makes it easy to change colour. Equipped with automatic shut-off function. Collapsible for easy storage. STANDARD: EN352-3, SNR 32dB ColourS: Orange, Green Effective short-range two-way communication. Built-in active volume function lets the wearer hear ambient sound: conversation, machine noises and warning signals. Weak sounds can be amplified. Sudden impulse noise at harmful levels are immediately attenuated. The right shell has a control panel with a large LCD display of current settings. An electronic voice advises on setting adjustments making it unnecessary to take off the headset to check. Unused, the set automatically switches off after two hours to save the batteries. An auxillary input facilitates connection to a mobile phone or external communications radio, regardless of the frequency. For safety reasons, the external system has signal priority. Possible to connect to CD player or FM radio. Available as LPD433 MHz or PMR 446 MHz. A08001. STANDARD: EN352-3, SNR 31dB ColourS: Navy A09003. Peltor Optime Push-to-Listen Earmuff “Electronic-passive” earmuff with one passive side and one electronic side. Push the button to listen - opening up the ear defender for communication. The electronic function automatically shuts off after 30 seconds. Wide comfortable sealing rings filled with a combination of fluid and foam for optimum sealing and low contact pressure. STANDARD: EN352-3, SNR 31dB ColourS: Black/Grey SALES HOTLINE 1850 303 304 A09003. COMMUNICATIONS EARMUFFS A08001. Peltor Litecom III Earmuff HEARING PROTECTION STANDARDS A10005 . Optime Alert System Sound Meter Simple sound level meter that compliments the Peltor Optime Alert system - an easy-to-use, colour-coded, selection system that aids the correct choice of protection for the noise level from the EAR and Peltor product ranges. Deploy the meter at an employee’s workstation to indicate average noise level in the area and the type of protection necessary. Display indicates period of time the unit has been active in 1 hour increments, up to a maximum of 8 hours. Accurate to + or - 1dB. A10005 . A10005 . Noise Monitor AWAITING DETAILS OF NOISE MONITOR Xxxxxxxxxxx xxxxxxx xxxxxxxx xxx xxxxxx xxxxxxx xx xxxxxxx xxxxxxxx xxx xxxxxx xxxxxxx Xxxxxxxxxxx xxxxxxx xxxxxxxx xxx xxxxxx xxxx HEARING PROTECTION STANDARDS EN352/1 Earmuff EN352/3 Helmet Mounted Earmuff EN352/2 Earplugs EN352/4 Electronic Earmuff EN458 Guide including recommendations on the selection, use, precautions to be taken and maintenance of hearing protection equipment. SELECTING & USING HEARING PROTECTION Noise induced hearing loss has been recognised by the World Health Organisation as “the most prevalent, irreversible industrial disease” and is still accounting for about one third of all work-related diseases. Currently an estimated one-third (more than 60 million people) are exposed to high levels of noise for more than a quarter of their working time. In addition, more than 40 million have to raise their voices above normal conversational levels in order to be heard for a least half of their working hours. More than 13 million workers, not only in heavy industry but also in sectors such as services, education and entertainment, are thought to have suffered hearing impairment at work. Exposure to Noise Noise is usually defined as unwanted sound. It’s intensity (loudness) is measured in decibels (dB). The decibel scale is logarithmic, so a three-decibel increase in the sound level represents a doubling of the noise intensity. Noise exposure may result in different effects on exposed persons, depending on the noise level. Low level noise mainly induces speech interference or annoyance. At higher noise levels these effects increase and additional physiological effects may occur as well as effects on hearing in terms of hearing loss and/or tinnitus. 12 The level of noise that might induce hearing loss depends on the duration of the exposure. Based on a dose-effect assumption, the critical level for noise induced hearing loss is set to 85 dB(A) during 8 hours per day. Noise need not be excessively loud to cause problems in the workplace and can interact with other workplace hazards to increase risks to workers, for example increasing the risk of accidents by masking warning signals, or being a causal factor in work-related stress. Exposure to noise may pose a variety of health risks to workers: Hearing loss. Physiological effects – evidence that exposure to noise has an effect on the cardiovascular system resulting in the release of catecholamine and an increase in blood pressure. Levels of catecholamine in the blood (including adrenaline) are associated with stress. Work related stress – work related stress rarely has a single cause and usually arises from an interaction of several risk factors. Noise in the work environment can be a stressor, even at quite low levels. Increased risk of accidents – high noise levels make it difficult for staff to hear and communicate, increasing the probability of accidents. Work related stress (in which noise may be a factor) can compound this problem. 13 SELECTING & USING HEARING PROTECTION Temporary threshold shift – is mostly experienced as dullness in hearing after exposure to loud noises. Hearing subsequently recovers depending on how loud the noises have been and exposure duration. Permanent threshold shift – is first experienced 48 hours after exposure to excessive noise. It can occur with regular exposure to excessive noise for long periods or exposure to high sound levels for a short period. This type of hearing loss will usually continue to increase for up to five years after exposure to the noise and may result in Tinnitus. Who is at risk? Anyone who is exposed to noise is at risk. The higher the noise level and the longer the exposure to it, the greater the risk of suffering harm from noise. In manufacturing and mining 40% of employees experience significant noise levels for more than half of their working life. For construction, the proportion is 35% and in many other sectors including agriculture, communications and transport, the figure is 20%. In addition noise is being recognised as a problem in service sectors such as education and healthcare, bars and restaurants. Current Noise Exposure Regulations The regulations on noise require action by employers to protect people at work. The employer must measure sound to determine the level of noise and the exposure levels of workers affected. They must also try to reduce the level of noise exposure to the lowest level reasonably practicable. The regulations impose specific duties on employers where the exposure level of employees exceeds 80 dB(A). Further duties are imposed at an exposure of 85 dB(A). At an exposure level of 80 dB(A) the employer must: Provide information about the level of exposure and the risks. human ear. C-weighting is used to to measure peak, impact or explosive noises. You might just notice a 3 dB change in noise level, because of the way our ears work. Yet every 3 dB doubles the noise, so what might seem like small differences in the numbers can be quite significant. Choosing the correct hearing protector A common reason for neglecting to use proper hearing proteciton is that the wrong choice was made in the first place. More sophisticated hearing protection than the situation demands can be perceived as uncomfortable and it becomes unnecessarily difficult to understand speech and signals. A common error is to over attenuate or chose a hearing protector reduce the sound level by more than necessary. In this case, there is a risk that the wearer will remove the hearing protector while talking to colleagues and, thereby, suffer from hearing loss. Therefore, how much should a hearing protector attenuate? The principle is simple – take the A-weighted sound level at the workplace and subtract the hearing protector’s stated attenuation level for that type of noise. With the right hearing protector, the result should be between 75 and 80 dB Aweighted sound level. The choice of hearing protector is individual. Choosing your own is the best guarantee for frequent use. As long as the hearing protector meets the safety requirements, the user should make the final choice. The basic rule is that hearing protection must be worn 100% of the time if the wearer is in an environment that has an A-weighted noise level of 85 dB. 100% usage gives the expected protection. 99% usage significantly reduces the effect of the hearing protector. 90% usage offers virtually no protection at all. Types of Protectors Available Hearing protection includes earplugs and earmuffs that are designed to reduce the intensity or loudness of sound. Provide hearing protectors and training on how to use them. Earplugs Make hearing checks available. Foam Plugs – made from expandable, slow recovery foam, these earplugs have to be compressed or shaped prior to insertion. At an exposure level of 85 dB(A), the employer must also: Identify the cause of the noise. Put in place a programme of reduction measures. Premoulded Plugs – made from flexible materials that are preformed to fit the ear. They are generally available with a joining cord to prevent loss. Put up signs indicating the level exceeds 85 dB(A) and that hearing protectors must be worn. Banded Earplugs – consist of pods of flexible tips on a lightweight headband. These are ideal for intermittent use. Provide training for the workers concerned regarding the risks to their hearing, the measures to reduce the noise and the necessity for wearing protectors. Detectable Earplugs – metal detectable, with bright, easy to see colours ideal for the food manufacturing industry. Under current regulations, employers are required to ensure that: Noise experienced at work is assessed and measured as needed. Formal assessment records (noise measurement results, equipment calibration results and audiometric test records of employees) are archived for at least three years and made available to employees and HSA inspectors. Noise risks in the workplace are reduced to the lowest level reasonably practicable. Musician’s Earplugs – designed for moderate noise reduction. For many sound exposures such as live music, public events and transportation, these provide the needed protection while making listening easier and more enjoyable. Custom Moulded Earplugs – made from a custom impression of the ear canal and acoustically verified for fit. Such fit verification is important since the acoustic seal of an ear mould can be compromised if the impression is not precise enough for an exact fit. Where the exposure to noise is likely to exceed 80dB(A) the suitable and adequate personal ear protectors are provided. Earmuffs Where it is not reasonably practicable to reduce the daily personal noise exposure of a worker below 80 dB(A), regular hearing checks are made available. Passive Earmuff – consisting of rigid cups with soft cushions that seal around the ears to block noise. Earmuffs come in one position or multiposition bands. Cushions may be filled with foam, liquid or a combination. Earmuffs protect against a very wide spectrum of noise levels. Measuring noise levels Noise is measured in decibels (dB). An A-weighting sometimes written as dB(A), is used to measure average (attenuated) noise levels. It is an expression of the relative loudness of sounds in air as perceived by the Helmet Mounted Earmuff – Earmuffs are available in styles for attachment to helmets. Where a combination of hazards exist and it is required that hearing and head protection is worn, this is a popular option. Electronic Earmuff – use a microphone embedded in the ear cup to pick up sounds and transmit them through the earmuff to an earphone inside. SALES HOTLINE 1850 303 304 HEARING PROTECTION selection & care Noise exposure and intense sounds can cause two main types of hearing loss: HEARING PROTECTION selection & care SELECTING & USING HEARING PROTECTION These amplify weak sounds while reducing loud noises. This facilitates better hearing at low sound levels without the need to remove the device while still providing sufficient protection at higher sound levels. Typically the electronics limit the amplified sound to a predetermined safe value less than 85 dB(A). These can be excellent for use while hunting or on the firing line, and for those with mild hearing loss as they can amplify sounds – making it easier to hear. Communications Earmuff – earmuffs that incorporate communications systems for people covering large areas within a noisy environment. Earmuff with Radio – an earmuff which plugs into an earphone jack on an entertainment device, or has a built in entertainment device, to provide balance noise reduction while simultaneously permitting listening. Care & Maintenance of Hearing Protectors Earplugs are usually disposed of after use. However, there are ranges of reuseable earplugs available that can be washed in mild liquid detergent and warm water. Squeeze excess water from the plugs and allow them to air dry. Once dry, store them in a carry case. Premoulded plugs will normally last several months depending upon the type and environmental factors. They should be replaced if they shrink, swell, harden or soften, tear, crack or become permanently deformed. Most banded earplugs can be cleaned in the same way as premoulded earplugs. Since the headband holds the tips in place to provide an acoustic seal, do not tamper with it or the protection the device provides may be reduced. Earmuff cushions should be cleaned with warm, soapy water and rinsed thoroughly. Do not use alcohol or solvents. Cushions normally need replacing twice a year or more – whenever they become stiff, cracked or do not seal. Do not modify earmuffs in any way and, especially, do not stretch or abuse the headbands as this will reduce your protection. When not in use, earmuffs How can Anderco help? Anderco Safety has a 5-step hearing protection programme that will help your company to comply with noise exposure regulations: 1. Noise survey – to identify hazardous noise sources and those most at risk of suffering noise induced hearing loss. Anderco can provide a noise survey service to facilitate the prioritised implementation of adequate reduction and prevention measures. Periodic spot checks and survey updates will ensure that the survey reflects any ongoing changes in work practices and the production process. 2. Hearing checks – before employees are exposed to high noise levels in the work environment, an initial hearing check should be carried out to determine an individual’s current hearing condition. A second test within 12 months and subsequent hearing checks will identify work related hearing deterioration. Workers who are exposed to a noise level above 85 dB(A) – whether or not hearing protection is used – are entitled to avail of audiometric tests at their employer’s expense every two years. Anderco can provide audiometric services that conform to current regulations. 3. Noise reduction plan – identify critical areas that require prioritisation and maximum resource allocation as well as in-process or machinery changes that will impact on noise levels. 4. Training – the regulations require employers to provide employees with information and training to help them understand and deal with noise related risks. Employers are advised to produce certification that identifies the employee trained and the training date. Anderco’s modular noise awareness and hearing conservation training programme – on how noise is defined, how hearing loss occurs, and how to prevent it – has been designed with the flexibility to meet your company’s specific requirements. It will provide your employees with the information to achieve optimal performance from PPE provided. 5. Signage & Consultancy – Anderco can provide your company with a safety signs audit and a diverse range of safety signage, including customised, specially branded corporate signs that can help you keep a safer workplace and meet hearing protection legislative requirements. For full details of the training and consultancy services available in the area for hearing protection and noise awareness, contact your Anderco Safety representative. 14