Download hearing protection

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
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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.
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