Personal Protection Equipment
10. Classification of PPE
10.5. Ear protection
When a source of noise emission exists and a worker is exposed to it, the ideal solution would be to control the noise in its origin, where it is produced.
However, this is often not possible, either for technical reasons or, in the majority of cases, for economic reasons. So PPE is then employed.
Before addressing the actual PPE to use, it is necessary to know that the first thing that must be done when dealing with noise is to measure and analyse it and assess the hazard in accordance with the regulations in force. Once the level of sound and the main disruptive frequency are known, then protection can be employed.
Two types of equipment may be used to close off the auditory pavilion, thus stopping it from being affected by the entry of sound:
Earmuffs:
Ear protectors that completely cover the auditory pavilion. Made up of two muffs, one for each ear with a suitable filter for the disruptive frequency and a fastening band that facilitates their fit on the head.
Earplugs:
Ear protection that is inserted into the external channel of the ear and which is supplied in various sizes or in deformable material to adapt to any individual.
Either earmuffs or earplugs may be used: what is important is for the level of sound that reaches the ear to be below 80 db (A). This is provided by the attenuation of the PPE.
When deciding whether to use earmuffs or earplugs, the following factors are to be taken into account:
- Suitable positioning of the protector.
- Comfort.
- Compatibility with other PPE (helmets, goggles, etc.).
To use equipment of this type, basically two values need to be known:
- The existing level of sound.
- The level of attenuation of the PPE that is to be used.
The sound level can be known by measurement; and the attenuation, i.e. the decibels lowered by the PPE, can be known by reading the manufacturer’s instructions, which must be supplied with all devices.
