Protecting Your Hearing at Work: A Guide for Employers and Employees

Hearing loss is a serious health concern that can affect anyone, including workers in various industries. In fact, exposure to loud noise is one of the most common causes of hearing loss. This is why it is essential for employers to provide hearing protection to their employees who work in noisy environments. In this guide, we will explore the legal requirements for employers to provide hearing protection, the different types of hearing protection available, and how to choose the right hearing protection for your workplace. We will also discuss the benefits of hearing protection for both employers and employees, and how to ensure that your hearing protection program is effective. Whether you are an employer or an employee, this guide will provide you with the information you need to protect your hearing at work.

Do Employers Have a Legal Obligation to Provide Hearing Protection?

What is the Noise at Work Regulation?

Under the Control of Noise at Work Regulations 2005, employers have a legal obligation to protect the hearing of their employees from excessive noise exposure. This regulation applies to all industries and workplaces where employees are exposed to noise levels above the recommended limits.

The Noise at Work Regulation sets out the following requirements for employers:

Risk assessment: Employers must carry out a noise risk assessment to identify and evaluate the risks to their employees’ hearing.
Control measures: Employers must implement measures to reduce the noise exposure of their employees to below the recommended limits. This may include providing hearing protection, enclosing or isolating noise sources, or reducing the time spent in noisy areas.
Health surveillance: Employers must provide health surveillance for their employees who are exposed to excessive noise levels. This may include hearing tests, audiometric testing, and examination of the ears.
Information and training: Employers must provide their employees with information and training on the risks of noise exposure and the correct use of hearing protection.

Employers must also ensure that their employees are aware of the risks of noise exposure and take steps to reduce the noise exposure of their employees to below the recommended limits. Failure to comply with the Noise at Work Regulation can result in legal action and penalties for employers.

Who is responsible for implementing the regulation?

Employers have a legal obligation to provide hearing protection to their employees, as per the regulations set by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). OSHA is a US government agency responsible for enforcing safety and health regulations in the workplace.

Under the Occupational Noise Exposure standard, employers are required to implement a hearing conservation program when noise exposure exceeds 85 decibels (dB) for 8 hours per day or 40 hours per week. The program must include audiometric testing, hearing protection devices, and training for employees.

The responsibility of implementing the regulation lies with the employer. Employers are required to assess the noise levels in their workplace, identify areas where noise exposure exceeds the OSHA standards, and implement appropriate measures to reduce noise exposure or provide hearing protection.

Employers must also ensure that their employees are trained on the proper use and maintenance of hearing protection devices, and that they understand the potential health effects of noise exposure.

Failure to comply with the regulations can result in penalties and fines for the employer, as well as legal action from affected employees. It is therefore essential for employers to take their legal obligation to provide hearing protection seriously and implement effective hearing conservation programs in their workplace.

What are the consequences of non-compliance?

Under the Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA), employers are required to provide a safe working environment for their employees. This includes protecting their hearing by providing appropriate hearing protection devices (HPDs) when necessary. Failure to comply with these regulations can result in serious consequences for both the employer and employee.

Employers who do not provide hearing protection as required by OSHA regulations can be subject to citations, fines, and even legal action. OSHA can issue citations for non-compliance, which can result in penalties and fines that can range from several hundred to several thousand dollars per violation. In addition, employers may be subject to legal action by their employees or by OSHA if they fail to provide appropriate hearing protection.

For employees, the consequences of non-compliance can be even more severe. Failure to use hearing protection when it is provided can result in permanent hearing damage or even hearing loss. This can have a significant impact on an employee’s quality of life, as well as their ability to work and earn a living. In addition, employees may be entitled to compensation if their hearing damage or loss was caused by their employer’s failure to provide appropriate hearing protection.

Overall, it is essential for employers to understand their legal obligations when it comes to hearing protection in the workplace. Failure to comply with these regulations can have serious consequences for both the employer and employee, and can result in long-term health problems and financial losses.

Hearing Protection Options for Employers

Key takeaway: Employers have a legal obligation to provide hearing protection to their employees as per the regulations set by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). Failure to comply with these regulations can result in serious consequences for both the employer and employee. It is therefore essential for employers to take their legal obligation to provide hearing protection seriously and implement effective hearing conservation programs in their workplace.

Earplugs

Earplugs are a popular choice for hearing protection in the workplace. They are small, portable, and easy to use, making them a convenient solution for employees who are exposed to loud noises on a regular basis.

There are two main types of earplugs: foam and reusable. Foam earplugs are disposable and can be purchased in bulk, making them a cost-effective option for employers. They are designed to be inserted directly into the ear and can provide effective noise reduction for up to 8 hours.

Reusable earplugs, on the other hand, are made of durable materials and can be cleaned and reused. They are typically more expensive than foam earplugs, but they can last for several years if properly maintained. Reusable earplugs are available in a variety of sizes and styles, making them a good option for employees with different ear shapes and sizes.

Regardless of the type of earplugs chosen, it is important to ensure that they are properly fitted and worn. Improper use can result in reduced effectiveness and may even cause harm to the ears. Employers should provide training to employees on how to properly use and maintain earplugs, and should also ensure that earplugs are readily available to all employees who need them.

Overall, earplugs are a practical and effective solution for protecting hearing in the workplace. By providing earplugs to employees and ensuring that they are used correctly, employers can help to prevent hearing damage and promote a safe and healthy work environment.

Earmuffs

Earmuffs are a popular hearing protection option for employers as they are affordable and easy to use. They work by covering the ear and providing a barrier between the ear and the noise. They are typically made of foam or plastic and are designed to fit around the ear.

Some key features of earmuffs include:

They are portable and can be worn by employees on the go.
They are lightweight and comfortable to wear for extended periods.
They come in a variety of sizes to fit different ear sizes.
They can be used in a variety of noise environments.

Earmuffs are an effective way to protect hearing in a noisy work environment. They can reduce noise exposure by up to 22 decibels, which can help prevent hearing damage. They are also a cost-effective solution for employers as they are relatively inexpensive compared to other hearing protection options.

It is important to note that while earmuffs are effective, they are not a replacement for other hearing protection options. It is recommended that employers provide a variety of hearing protection options to their employees to ensure that they have the option that works best for them.

Combining earplugs and earmuffs

One effective method for protecting employees’ hearing at work is by combining the use of earplugs and earmuffs. This approach offers a dual-protection mechanism that provides better noise reduction compared to using either option alone.

Advantages of Combining Earplugs and Earmuffs:

Complementary Protection: Earplugs and earmuffs work in different ways to protect the ears. Earplugs fit inside the ear canal and block the noise by creating a seal, while earmuffs rest on the outer ear and cover the ear canal, providing a barrier against noise. By using both, employers can offer their employees a more comprehensive and effective hearing protection solution.
Increased Noise Reduction: Combining earplugs and earmuffs can provide up to 25 decibels (dB) of additional noise reduction compared to using either option alone. This improvement can significantly reduce the risk of hearing damage for employees exposed to loud noise in the workplace.
Flexibility and Convenience: Employers can offer both earplugs and earmuffs to their employees, allowing them to choose the option that best suits their needs and preferences. This flexibility ensures that employees can have access to hearing protection that fits their individual requirements.
Reusable and Cost-Effective: While earplugs are disposable, earmuffs can be reused, making this combination a cost-effective solution for employers. Additionally, investing in high-quality earplugs and earmuffs can save money in the long run by reducing the risk of hearing damage and associated costs, such as workers’ compensation claims.

In conclusion, combining earplugs and earmuffs offers a robust and flexible hearing protection solution for employers. By providing employees with both options, employers can ensure that their workforce is well-equipped to face the challenges of noise exposure in the workplace.

Selecting the Right Hearing Protection for Your Workplace

Noise level assessment

When it comes to protecting your hearing at work, selecting the right hearing protection is crucial. One of the first steps in this process is to conduct a noise level assessment.

What is a noise level assessment?

A noise level assessment is a process of measuring the noise levels in your workplace. This is important because it helps you determine the level of noise exposure that your employees are experiencing on a daily basis. It also helps you identify which areas of your workplace are particularly loud and where hearing protection may be necessary.

Why is a noise level assessment important?

Conducting a noise level assessment is important for several reasons. Firstly, it helps you comply with legal requirements. In many countries, employers are required by law to assess the noise levels in their workplace and take appropriate measures to protect their employees’ hearing. Secondly, it helps you protect your employees’ health. Exposure to high levels of noise can cause hearing damage over time, which can lead to hearing loss and other related health problems. Finally, it helps you optimize your workplace safety measures. By identifying the areas of your workplace that are particularly loud, you can take steps to reduce noise levels and create a safer work environment for your employees.

How to conduct a noise level assessment

Conducting a noise level assessment is relatively straightforward. Here are the steps you can follow:

Identify the areas of your workplace that are particularly loud. This could include areas where machinery is in use, areas where construction work is taking place, or areas where employees are exposed to loud music or noise.
Measure the noise levels in these areas using a noise meter. A noise meter is a device that measures the level of noise in decibels (dB).
Record the results of your measurements. You should record the noise levels in each area, as well as the duration of the noise exposure.
Analyze the results of your measurements. Look for areas where the noise levels exceed the recommended limits (usually 85 dB over an 8-hour workday).
Take appropriate measures to protect your employees’ hearing. This could include providing hearing protection, reducing noise levels through engineering controls, or implementing workplace policies to limit noise exposure.

In conclusion, conducting a noise level assessment is an important step in protecting your employees’ hearing at work. By measuring the noise levels in your workplace, you can identify areas where hearing protection may be necessary and take steps to create a safer work environment for your employees.

Workplace environment

The workplace environment plays a crucial role in determining the appropriate hearing protection needed for employees. Factors such as noise levels, duration of exposure, and type of noise present in the workplace should be taken into consideration when selecting the right hearing protection.

Noise levels: The decibel (dB) level of the noise in the workplace is a critical factor in determining the appropriate hearing protection. According to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), any noise exceeding 85 dB requires hearing protection.
Duration of exposure: The length of time an employee is exposed to noise in the workplace also affects the selection of hearing protection. Prolonged exposure to high levels of noise can cause irreversible damage to the ears.
Type of noise: The type of noise present in the workplace is also a significant factor in determining the appropriate hearing protection. For example, constant noise such as that produced by machinery may require different protection than intermittent noise such as that produced by power tools.

Understanding the workplace environment is essential in ensuring that employees are adequately protected from noise-induced hearing loss. Employers must take the necessary steps to assess the noise levels in their workplace and provide appropriate hearing protection to their employees.

Implementing Hearing Protection in the Workplace

Training employees on proper use and maintenance of hearing protection

To ensure that employees are effectively protected from hearing damage in the workplace, it is essential to provide them with proper training on the use and maintenance of hearing protection. This training should cover the following topics:

The importance of wearing hearing protection: Employees should understand the potential risks of hearing damage and the importance of wearing hearing protection to prevent it. This includes the risks of long-term hearing loss, tinnitus, and other hearing-related issues.
Proper selection and use of hearing protection: Employees should be trained on how to select the appropriate hearing protection for their specific work environment and how to properly use and wear it. This includes information on how to properly insert and remove earplugs, how to wear earmuffs, and how to use other types of hearing protection.
Maintenance and storage of hearing protection: Employees should be instructed on how to properly maintain and store their hearing protection to ensure that it remains effective. This includes information on how to clean and replace filters, how to store earplugs, and how to properly store earmuffs when not in use.
Training on proper use and maintenance of hearing protection should be provided to all employees who are required to wear hearing protection, including new hires and any employees who have recently been assigned to a job that requires hearing protection.
Training should be provided by a qualified trainer, such as an occupational health and safety specialist or a hearing conservation program coordinator.
Employers should also provide regular follow-up training to ensure that employees continue to use and maintain their hearing protection properly.
Employers should also provide training on the proper disposal of hearing protection, to ensure that it is disposed of properly and does not end up in landfills or other places where it can cause harm.

By providing comprehensive training on the proper use and maintenance of hearing protection, employers can help ensure that their employees are effectively protected from hearing damage in the workplace. This can help prevent the development of hearing-related issues, reduce the risk of lost workdays and medical expenses, and improve overall workplace safety.

Encouraging a culture of hearing protection

One of the most effective ways to protect the hearing of employees in the workplace is to create a culture of hearing protection. This can be achieved by:

Providing education and training on the importance of hearing protection and the correct use of hearing protection equipment.
Encouraging open communication and feedback about hearing health among employees and management.
Creating a positive environment that values and rewards employees who prioritize their hearing health.
Encouraging leadership by example, with management setting a good example by using hearing protection and prioritizing their own hearing health.
Regularly reviewing and updating hearing protection policies and procedures to ensure they are effective and relevant.

By fostering a culture of hearing protection, employers can create an environment where employees feel empowered to prioritize their hearing health and take the necessary steps to protect their hearing on the job. This not only benefits the employees, but also the employer, as it can lead to increased productivity, reduced absenteeism, and improved overall job satisfaction.

Monitoring and enforcing hearing protection policies

Proper monitoring and enforcement of hearing protection policies are crucial to ensuring the effectiveness of hearing protection programs in the workplace. Here are some steps that employers can take to monitor and enforce hearing protection policies:

Conduct regular audiometric testing: Regular audiometric testing is an essential part of hearing conservation programs. It helps to identify employees who are at risk of hearing loss and ensures that they receive the appropriate hearing protection. Employers should schedule regular audiometric testing for all employees who are exposed to high noise levels and ensure that the results are recorded and stored securely.
Train supervisors and managers: Supervisors and managers play a critical role in monitoring and enforcing hearing protection policies. They should be trained to recognize the signs of hearing loss and to encourage employees to use hearing protection when necessary. They should also be familiar with the hearing conservation program and be able to answer any questions that employees may have.
Conduct regular inspections: Employers should conduct regular inspections of the workplace to ensure that employees are using hearing protection correctly. They should also ensure that the hearing protection equipment is in good condition and that it is being used properly.
Provide feedback and training: Employers should provide feedback and training to employees on the proper use of hearing protection equipment. This can include demonstrations of how to properly wear earplugs or earmuffs, as well as information on the different types of hearing protection available.
Recordkeeping: Employers should maintain accurate records of all audiometric testing, training, and other aspects of the hearing conservation program. These records should be stored securely and be easily accessible in case of an inspection by OSHA or other regulatory agencies.

By monitoring and enforcing hearing protection policies, employers can help to reduce the risk of hearing loss among their employees and ensure compliance with OSHA regulations.

Hearing Protection for Employees

Employer responsibilities

When it comes to protecting the hearing of employees, employers have a critical role to play. The following are some of the responsibilities that employers need to fulfill:

Providing Hearing Protection Devices

One of the primary responsibilities of employers is to provide their employees with hearing protection devices (HPDs) that meet the requirements of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). This includes providing earplugs, earmuffs, or other types of hearing protection devices that are appropriate for the specific workplace.

Conducting Hearing Conservation Programs

Employers must also conduct hearing conservation programs that educate employees about the risks of noise-induced hearing loss and the importance of wearing hearing protection devices. These programs should also include training on how to properly use and maintain the HPDs provided by the employer.

Monitoring Noise Levels

Employers must monitor the noise levels in their workplace to determine if they are within the permissible exposure limits set by OSHA. If the noise levels are too high, employers must take appropriate measures to reduce the noise, such as implementing engineering controls or providing additional hearing protection devices.

Providing Hearing Tests

Employers should also provide hearing tests for their employees at regular intervals, such as every six months or annually. This helps to detect any early signs of hearing loss and allows for timely intervention and treatment.

Ensuring Compliance

Finally, employers must ensure compliance with OSHA regulations and guidelines regarding hearing protection in the workplace. This includes providing the necessary HPDs, conducting hearing conservation programs, monitoring noise levels, and providing hearing tests. Failure to comply with these regulations can result in hefty fines and penalties for the employer.

In summary, employers have a crucial role to play in protecting the hearing of their employees. By providing HPDs, conducting hearing conservation programs, monitoring noise levels, and ensuring compliance with OSHA regulations, employers can help prevent noise-induced hearing loss and promote a safe and healthy work environment.

Employee responsibilities

When it comes to protecting your hearing at work, employees have a crucial role to play. Here are some of the key responsibilities that employees should keep in mind:

Wear hearing protection devices: If your workplace is exposed to high levels of noise, it is important to wear hearing protection devices such as earplugs or earmuffs. These devices can help reduce the risk of hearing damage and protect your hearing over time.
Report hearing problems: If you experience any hearing problems or notice a decline in your hearing, it is important to report this to your employer immediately. This will help ensure that you receive the necessary treatment and prevent further damage to your hearing.
Follow safety protocols: Employers are required to provide a safe working environment for their employees. This includes implementing safety protocols to protect employees’ hearing. It is important for employees to follow these protocols and use the provided hearing protection devices to minimize the risk of hearing damage.
Maintain hearing protection devices: Hearing protection devices should be cleaned and maintained regularly to ensure they continue to function properly. Employees should follow the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning and maintenance to ensure the devices remain effective.
Seek training: If you are new to a job that involves exposure to high levels of noise, it is important to seek training on how to use hearing protection devices effectively. This will help you protect your hearing and minimize the risk of hearing damage.

Hearing protection as a condition of employment

In many industries, hearing protection is considered a condition of employment. This means that employers are required to provide their employees with the necessary hearing protection equipment and training to prevent hearing loss on the job. Employers have a legal obligation to ensure that their employees are not exposed to hazardous noise levels, and failure to do so can result in legal consequences.

In addition to the legal requirements, providing hearing protection as a condition of employment also benefits the employer. It shows a commitment to the health and safety of employees, which can improve morale and job satisfaction. It also reduces the risk of workers’ compensation claims and associated costs, as hearing loss is a preventable injury.

There are various types of hearing protection equipment available, including earplugs, earmuffs, and combination devices. Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages, and employers should consult with occupational health and safety experts to determine the most appropriate type of equipment for their employees.

It is important to note that hearing protection should be used in conjunction with other noise control measures, such as engineering controls and administrative controls. Engineering controls involve modifying the workplace environment to reduce noise levels, while administrative controls involve implementing policies and procedures to limit noise exposure.

In conclusion, hearing protection as a condition of employment is an essential component of any comprehensive occupational health and safety program. It not only protects the health and well-being of employees but also benefits the employer by reducing the risk of costly workers’ compensation claims.

Additional Resources for Hearing Protection in the Workplace

Government agencies

Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA): OSHA is a U.S. government agency responsible for enforcing safety and health regulations in the workplace. They provide guidelines and standards for hearing protection, as well as resources for employers and employees to ensure safe and healthy working conditions.
National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH): NIOSH is a research agency of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services that focuses on occupational safety and health. They conduct research and provide recommendations for the prevention of hearing loss in the workplace, as well as educational materials for employers and employees.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): The CDC is a federal agency that works to protect public health and safety. They provide information and resources on hearing loss prevention, including information on noise exposure and hearing protection in the workplace.
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA): The EPA is a federal agency that regulates environmental protection. They have guidelines and regulations for noise exposure and hearing protection in the workplace, as well as resources for employers and employees to ensure compliance with these regulations.
Food and Drug Administration (FDA): The FDA is a federal agency that regulates food, drugs, and medical devices. They provide information and guidelines for the use and selection of hearing protection devices in the workplace, as well as regulations for the manufacture and sale of these devices.

Professional organizations

Employers and employees can benefit from the resources provided by professional organizations dedicated to hearing health and safety in the workplace. These organizations offer a wealth of information, guidance, and training materials to help promote effective hearing protection practices. Some of the key professional organizations that can be consulted include:

National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH): NIOSH is a part of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and is responsible for conducting research and making recommendations to prevent work-related illnesses and injuries. NIOSH provides extensive resources on hearing protection, including guidelines, educational materials, and training programs.
Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA): OSHA is a U.S. government agency responsible for enforcing safety and health regulations in the workplace. OSHA has established specific requirements for hearing protection in many industries and provides a range of resources, including training materials, inspection checklists, and guidance on compliance with regulations.
National Hearing Conservation Association (NHCA): The NHCA is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting better hearing health and safety in the workplace. The organization offers training programs, educational materials, and networking opportunities for professionals in various industries.
American Industrial Hygiene Association (AIHA): AIHA is a professional organization for industrial hygienists and other professionals involved in workplace health and safety. The organization offers training, resources, and networking opportunities to help promote effective hearing protection practices in the workplace.

By consulting these and other professional organizations, employers and employees can gain access to valuable resources and guidance to help ensure effective hearing protection in the workplace.

Recap of key points

The Importance of Hearing Protection: Exposure to high levels of noise in the workplace can lead to permanent hearing loss, tinnitus, and other hearing-related issues.
OSHA Regulations: The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has set noise exposure limits and requires employers to provide hearing protection to employees who are exposed to noise levels above these limits.
Types of Hearing Protection: There are various types of hearing protection devices (HPDs) available, including earplugs, earmuffs, and semi-insert HPDs. Employers should provide a variety of options to suit the needs of their employees.
Proper Use and Maintenance of Hearing Protection: Employees should be trained on how to properly use and maintain their hearing protection devices. This includes proper insertion, removal, and cleaning techniques.
Noise Reduction Ratings (NRR): NRR is a measure of the effectiveness of hearing protection devices in reducing noise exposure. Employers should ensure that employees are using HPDs with the appropriate NRR for their level of noise exposure.
Monitoring Noise Levels: Employers should regularly monitor noise levels in the workplace to identify areas of concern and ensure that appropriate hearing protection measures are in place.
Training and Education: Both employers and employees should receive training on the importance of hearing protection, proper use and maintenance of HPDs, and the effects of noise exposure on hearing health.
Medical Surveillance: Employers should provide medical surveillance programs to monitor the hearing health of employees who are exposed to high levels of noise in the workplace.
Recordkeeping: Employers are required to maintain records of noise measurements, hearing tests, and medical surveillance programs for each employee exposed to noise levels above OSHA limits.
Communication and Cooperation: Employers and employees should work together to establish a culture of hearing protection in the workplace. This includes encouraging employees to report any hearing-related issues and promoting open communication about hearing health.

Call to action for employers and employees to prioritize hearing protection in the workplace.

Employers and employees must take the initiative to prioritize hearing protection in the workplace. To achieve this, the following steps can be taken:

Conduct regular hearing tests: Regular hearing tests should be conducted to detect any hearing loss early and take necessary measures to prevent further damage.
Provide hearing protection equipment: Employers should provide hearing protection equipment such as earplugs, earmuffs, and noise-cancelling headphones to their employees.
Educate employees about hearing protection: Employers should educate their employees about the importance of hearing protection and how to use the equipment properly.
Encourage a hearing-friendly work environment: Employers should create a hearing-friendly work environment by reducing noise levels, minimizing the use of noisy equipment, and providing quiet areas for employees to rest.
Promote hearing health: Employers should promote hearing health by offering hearing screenings, hearing conservation programs, and employee wellness initiatives.

By taking these steps, employers and employees can prioritize hearing protection in the workplace and reduce the risk of hearing loss and other hearing-related issues.

FAQs

1. Do employers have a legal obligation to provide hearing protection to their employees?

Under the Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA), employers are required to provide hearing protection to their employees if they are exposed to noise levels that exceed the OSHA’s permissible exposure limits (PELs) for noise. These limits vary depending on the type of noise and the duration of exposure. Employers must also provide training to their employees on the proper use and maintenance of hearing protection devices.

2. What types of hearing protection do employers have to provide?

Employers are required to provide hearing protection that is appropriate for the noise levels and duration of exposure that their employees are subjected to. This can include earplugs, earmuffs, or a combination of both. Employers should also provide training to their employees on how to properly use and maintain the hearing protection devices.

3. How often do employers have to provide hearing protection to their employees?

Employers are required to provide hearing protection to their employees whenever they are exposed to noise levels that exceed the OSHA’s PELs for noise. This means that employers must provide hearing protection to their employees on a daily basis, or as needed, depending on the noise levels in the workplace.

4. What happens if an employer fails to provide hearing protection to their employees?

If an employer fails to provide hearing protection to their employees when they are exposed to noise levels that exceed the OSHA’s PELs for noise, they may be subject to fines and penalties. In addition, if an employee suffers hearing loss or other injuries as a result of not being provided with hearing protection, the employer may be liable for damages.

5. Can employees bring their own hearing protection to work?

Employees can bring their own hearing protection to work, but employers are still required to provide hearing protection that is appropriate for the noise levels and duration of exposure that their employees are subjected to. Employers should also provide training to their employees on how to properly use and maintain the hearing protection devices, regardless of whether the devices were provided by the employer or the employee.