Hearing Protection And Conservation
Hearing Protection and Conservation
When should I wear hearing protection?
If you are exposed to excessively noisy environments (80 dB or more), you should wear hearing protection. You should also wear them when you are using power tools, noisy garden equipment, or firearms. The table below shows how easy it is to exceed maximum exposure levels.
| Level of noise in dB(A) | Maximum daily exposure time |
|---|---|
| 85 | 8 hours |
| 91> | 2 hours |
| 97 | 30 minutes |
| 103 | 7 minutes |
| Noise Level | Unprotected | Protected |
|---|---|---|
| 60dB Speech | Unlimited | Unlimited |
| 70dB Office | Unlimited | Unlimited |
| 85dB Busy traffic | 8 hours | Unlimited |
| 91dB Pub | 2 hours | 64 hours |
| 100dB Factory | 15 minutes | 8 hours |
| 106dB Nightclub | 4 minutes | 2 hours |
| 115dB Jackhammer | 30 seconds | 15 minutes |
| 140dB Gunshot | none | 1.5 minutes |
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the hearing conservation consultation process work at Oxford Hearing Centre?
At Oxford Hearing Centre, our hearing conservation consultation process is designed to provide you with personalised solutions that meet your specific needs. Initially, we’ll have a detailed discussion about your hearing history, daily environments, and any concerns you may have about noise exposure.
How often should I replace my hearing protection?
The effectiveness of hearing protection devices can diminish over time due to wear and tear, so it’s essential to have them regularly assessed. While we recommend replacing the devices every 2 to 3 years, the frequency with which you should have them checked can depend on your individual circumstances, such as the environments in which they’re used.
What is hearing conservation?
Hearing conservation refers to the steps and strategies used to prevent noise-induced hearing loss. It’s a comprehensive approach that involves identifying risks, using protective equipment, and providing regular hearing assessments.
When should I consider using hearing protection?
If you’re frequently exposed to noisy environments of 80 dB or more, it’s recommended to use hearing protection. Situations might include attending loud events, working with power tools, being in noisy workplaces, or when using firearms.
Are there different types of hearing protection available?
Yes, there are various types of hearing protection including earplugs, earmuffs, and custom-made ear protectors. The choice largely depends on the noise levels, comfort preferences, and specific situations in which they’ll be used.
Can I use headphones or earbuds as hearing protection?
While some headphones offer noise-cancelling features, they might not provide the level of protection needed in extremely noisy environments. It’s best to use equipment specifically designed for hearing protection.
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