Do you regularly work in noise? Then you probably know that your ears are going to have to endure quite a bit. But from when is it actually mandatory to wear hearing protection? And when is it smart to choose customized hearing protection, such as otoplastics?
Many companies wait too long to take action. While hearing damage is permanent and easy to prevent. So it's time for clear answers.
Dutch legislation is clear about noise in the workplace. In article 6.8 of the Working Conditions Decree describes what employers must do to protect employees against hearing damage.
From 80 decibels (dB (A)), action must be taken. So sound doesn't have to be extremely loud to be harmful. The peak load and the duration of exposure both count.
The legal limit is 85 dB (A). Will that noise level be exceeded? Then wearing hearing protection is mandatory. But employers must make hearing protection available from as little as 80 dB (A). The risk of hearing damage must also be recorded in the risk inventory and evaluation (RI&E).
To give an idea of those levels:
The risk often lies not in one short peak, but in prolonged exposure to a “just a little too high” level. Would you like to know more about what the Working Conditions Act says about the maximum number of DBs? Then also check out this detailed article about hearing protection and the Working Conditions Act.
In many cases, standard earplugs or earmuffs offer sufficient protection. But they don't always fit properly, are not comfortable, or are not used properly. Tailored hearing protection is then a better choice. Especially if you work in noise for a long time, or when communication is important.
Customized hearing protection is particularly suitable for daily exposure to noise above 85 dB (A). Customization also offers a comfortable and reliable solution in work situations where communication is important or where standard caps are uncomfortable or do not close enough. It provides optimal protection without sacrificing comfort or speech intelligibility.
Customized hearing protection is a suitable choice in the following situations:
Otoplastics are shaped exactly to your ear canal. As a result, they are comfortable, close better and you can opt for filters that still let speech through.
Hearing damage is often only noticeable when it is too late. It starts with a ringing in your ear or tired hearing, and sometimes ends in permanent hearing loss. The Working Conditions Act requires employers to ensure a safe working environment. But as an employee, you also have the responsibility to wear hearing protection when necessary.
Well-protected ears not only reduce damage, but also provide more comfort and less fatigue during the working day.