Worker Safety: Hearing Protection

Hearing protection is vital on construction sites due to high noise levels from machinery and tools. Prolonged exposure can cause permanent hearing loss.

Noise levels are measured in decibels (dB). Prolonged exposure to noise levels above 85 dB can cause hearing loss, which may be gradual but can become permanent over time.¹ This is why OSHA mandates hearing protection when exposed to 85 dB averaged over an 8-hour workday.

• Understand your risk: Know decibel levels that put you at risk
• Know your noise level:
  • Request noise testing with a dosimeter.
  • Utilize mobile phone applications to estimate noise levels.
  • Use the 2-3 foot rule: Stand arm’s length from a coworker. If you have to raise your voice to be heard, you should assume sound levels are at or above 85dbs.
• Move equipment: If possible, move noisy equipment further from your work area
• Block noise: Use noise barriers such as plywood or other materials to restrict noise
• Limit hours: Restrict your hours working around noisy equipment
• Use hearing protection: Utilize appropriate hearing protection (e.g., ear plugs, ear-muffs) for your exposure.
• Not all hearing protection is equal: Hearing Protection Devices are provided a Noise Reduction Rating (NRR) which helps determine the amount of sound prevented from reaching the delicate parts of the ear.
• Wear it consistently: The best way to reduce hearing loss is to consistently wear hearing protection in noisy environments.
• Inspect and maintain: Regularly inspect and maintain hearing protection device and replace when deficiencies are identified.

• Normal Conversation: 60 dB
• Skill Saw: 82 dB
• Belt Sander: 90 dB
• Bulldozer: 100 dB
• Jackhammer: 102 dB

Why hearing protection matters

Construction environments expose you to significant hearing loss risk. While hearing damage can be prevented, once permanent noise-induced hearing loss occurs, it cannot be cured or reversed. Hearing loss usually occurs gradually, so you may not realize it is happening until it is too late. Follow the “What You Can Do” steps to protect you hearing.