Hearing Protection

What is double hearing protection, and when is it needed?

Washington — Nearly 1 out of 4 mining workers experience job-related hearing loss, and more than 1 out of 3 employees in one industry subgroup are affected, according to a recent NIOSH study.

A growing number of workers wear hearing aids, such as behind-the-ear or in-canal models, that can’t be used with foam earplugs. What does OSHA allow, and what actually works to mask most noise but allow conversations with earplug-wearing co-workers?

Are you concerned about on-the-job hearing loss? It’s a common problem among workers in the United States. In fact, every year, roughly 22 million U.S. workers are exposed to hazardous noise levels at work, according to NIOSH.

How does fit checking minimize the risk of hearing loss claims and help workers properly use hearing protection products?

Washington — Staffing agencies and host employers share responsibility for protecting temporary workers from respiratory and noise hazards, according to separate bulletins recently released by OSHA as part of its Temporary Worker Initiative.

Arlington, VA — The International Safety Equipment Association has launched an initiative highlighting the importance of preventing hearing loss in the workplace – where, according to NIOSH, 22 million people are exposed to hazardous noise each year.

What is “acoustical confusion,” and what are some solutions to this problem?

Orlando, FL — The U.S. Army’s Tactical Communications and Protective System is the recipient of this year’s NIOSH Safe-in-Sound Excellence in Hearing Loss Prevention Award, presented Feb. 16 at the National Hearing Conservation Association’s annual conference.