Key Questions
The following key questions are answered in this module:
What causes hearing loss?
If the stereocilia are damaged, hearing loss will occur. Hearing loss can occur from several conditions or sources, including ear infections, aging, impact, childhood diseases, medications, or from repeated exposure to excessive noise.
What's the best way to reduce the risk of hearing loss?
The best way to avoid hearing loss is to eliminate the hazard. An example of this is by eliminating the need to preform a noisy task, thereby eliminating the noise.
If you can't eliminate noise at the workplace, what's the best way to reduce the risk of hearing loss?
First, try an engineering control, like putting the noisy object inside a sound-proof enclosure. Then, try administrative controls, like reducing the amount of time people spend near the noise. Finally, try PPE, like hearing protection. In some cases, you may use multiple controls at the same time.
What is the action level?
Employers shall administer a hearing conservation program for employees in work environments where noise exposure equals or exceeds the action level. In Canada, an 8-hour TWA at or above 85 dB is called the "action level".
What are ear muffs?
Ear muffs are insulated cups that cover the entire ear. The cups are filled with a sound-reducing material to prevent sound waves from reaching the ear.
What are ear plugs?
Ear plugs are made from foam or other soft materials and are designed to fit inside the ear canal. Ear plugs block sound waves from entering the inner ear.
What training should employees receive about hearing protection and noise?
Any employee whose noise exposure meets or exceeds the action level are required to participate in employee training. The training should be repeated every year and should also be updated if there are any changes to work processes or hearing protective devices.