Why Hearing Conservation Matters

Why hearing conservation matters

October 15, 2025
By Honeywell Safety, for the Blue Print

Hearing is vital for communication, awareness, and safety. Noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) is a permanent, progressive condition that affects millions globally and is largely preventable. Industries like construction, mining, and manufacturing are especially at risk.

A Hearing conservation program places hearing loss prevention at its core. This typically includes these six initiatives.

Noise exposure assessment – identify and measure hazardous noise levels.
Audiometric testing – regular hearing checks to monitor changes.
Hearing protection selection & fit testing – ensure proper devices and fit.
Employee training & education – teach risks and protective practices.
Record keeping – track exposure, testing, and training.
Program evaluation – review effectiveness and make improvements.

Early signs include ringing, difficulty communicating, and temporary hearing loss after work. If you observe any of the symptoms above, it’s time to measure environmental noise.

Measuring and monitoring noise exposure

Preventing hearing loss starts with measuring workplace noise. OSHA requires a hearing conservation program when exposure reaches or exceeds an 8-hour TWA of 85 dBA.

Monitoring requirements:

Include all noise types: continuous, intermittent, impulsive (80–130 dBA)
Monitor all exposed employees

Measurement methods:

Area sampling: Uses sound level meters at fixed locations—ideal for stable environments.
Personal sampling: Uses dosimeters worn near the ear—best for mobile or variable conditions.

Both methods assess unprotected exposure. Estimating protected exposure requires knowing the hearing protector’s attenuation rating - fit testing provides the most accurate results.

Earplug fit testing and hearing conservation

Effective hearing conservation requires understanding how well hearing protectors work in real-world conditions. Earplug fit testing helps determine if employees are properly protected, need training, or should switch to a different earplug model.

Benefits of fit testing:

Ensures proper fit, comfort, and noise attenuation
Identifies overprotection
Provides immediate feedback
Encourages peer-to-peer training
Supports regulatory compliance for training and documentation

Hearing protection standards overview

The ANSI provides consensus standards referenced in OSHA’s Noise Standard for equipment calibration and noise measurement (e.g., ANSI S3.6, S1.4, S1.11). OSHA regulations cover recordkeeping and methods for evaluating hearing protector effectiveness and audiometer calibration.

When noise exceeds safe levels, engineering controls (e.g., quieter machinery, maintenance, sound barriers) and administrative controls (e.g., rotating tasks, quiet breaks) are the primary strategies to reduce exposure. These controls can often resolve noise issues without further intervention.

Employer hearing protection requirements

If engineering or administrative controls can't reduce noise to safe levels, employers must provide hearing protection. OSHA mandates:

Protection offered at 8-hour TWA noise levels of 85 dBA or higher
Mandatory use at levels above 90 dBA
A variety of earplugs and earmuffs must be available to suit different workers and environments

Choosing the right hearing protection

Selecting hearing protection depends on several factors:

Work environment: Climate, communication needs, exposure type, other PPE, and contamination risks all influence the choice.
Noise reduction rating (NRR): Indicates average sound reduction in lab settings—not individual performance.
Personal attenuation rating (PAR): Fit-tested attenuation for each worker; an OSHA best practice.
Comfort & fit: Comfort affects consistent and correct use, which is key to effectiveness.

Earplug Types:

Foam: High attenuation, affordable, adapts to ear canal movement.
Banded: Easy to remove/reinsert; ideal for intermittent noise.
Detectable: Designed for visibility in contamination-sensitive environments.
Disposable vs. reusable: Based on usage needs and hygiene.

Earmuff Types:

Over-the-head, cap-mounted, behind-the-neck: All require a tight seal for effectiveness.
Pros: Easier fit, good for intermittent noise, compatible with hearing aids.
Cons: Less attenuation than earplugs, may conflict with other PPE, less comfortable over time.

Key consideration: Avoid overprotection. The ideal hearing protector reduces noise to safe levels (below 85 dBA) without impairing communication or situational awareness.

Training and education for hearing conservation

Hearing protection only works if it's worn consistently. Educating employees on the risks of NIHL is key to building awareness and compliance.

Effective training strategies:

Review and explain annual audiogram results
Share noise level info and use audio demos to show hearing loss impact
Empower experienced workers as peer advocates
Reward compliance and peer support
Encourage use of hearing protection outside of work

Best practices:

Use one-on-one training for proper use and care of PPE
Align training with annual audiometric testing for better engagement
Continuously evaluate program performance through feedback and record reviews

Support available: Contact your safety consultant for guidance.

Content originally from Honeywell Safety. Reused here with permission.