ABC Safety Glasses Posting Page
Thursday, August 9, 2007
Ear protection is comprehensive and involves anything from wearing the proper ear plugs, earmuffs, or headgear that protects the ears from being injured. Not only does ear protection guard against excessive noise, but ear protection also shields the ear from dust particles. Loud noise can cause ear damage and brain damage as well. And, once you lose your hearing, there is nothing you can do to repair it-even with surgery. Safety is job one and your own safety should be a priority without having to give it a second thought.

Workplace noise can often be misleading. It may not sound loud or bothersome, but if it's continuous, it can cause damage without you knowing it. By the time you're aware of the potential for harm, it's often too late. There are several types of ear protection such as earmuffs, ear plugs, hearing bands and disposable ear plugs. For the more sophisticated type of ear protection, there are filters that can block out a specific sound or noise. Depending on your workstation and company policy, you may also be able to sound proof a workstation area.

Most forms of ear protection are made of soft plastic or foam that fits into the ear smugly and then expands. The goal is to let residual sound in, blocking out the unwanted noise and you can choose from a myriad of brands and types. If you're looking for full protection, earmuffs will usually provide what you need. Technology never stands still and one of the newest types of ear protection available on the market is the electric earplug. These types of ear plugs can be custom fit and serve to filter out loud harmful noises, but let in levels of noise such as conversations.

When looking for the proper ear protection, proper fit should be right at the top of the list. It doesn't do you much good if the loud noises are getting through. In fact, a false sense of ear protection can sometimes be more harmful than if you had none at all. It's important to make sure that if you're wearing ear protection that blocks out loud noises, there is some type of visual warning system in place that can alert you in case of an emergency.

Loss of hearing is a serious challenge and not only for those who directly experience it. It's something that families, friends and colleagues have to deal with as well. That's why it's important to always employ the right type of ear protection where high noise levels are involved. This is good advice even if at a sporting event, where noise levels can be deafening. Play it smart and always practice good safety habits by wearing proper ear protection. ** Hearing Protection