How to Maintain and Clean Your Hearing Protection Devices
Hearing protection equipment is essential for preventing noise-induced hearing loss and other auditory disorders in the workplace. However, if you don't take care of your hearing protection devices properly, they may lose their effectiveness, become damaged, or pose a hygiene risk. In this article, you will learn some best practices for maintaining hearing protection equipment, such as earmuffs, earplugs, and communication headsets. We, PPE ONLINE continuously try to educate the customers and ensure that they are using the right hearing protection and help them cleaning and maintaining the hearing protection equipment. Here are the few steps for hearing protection care:
- Choose the right type:
The first step to maintaining your hearing protection equipment is to choose the right type for your work environment and personal preference. Different types of hearing protection devices have different noise reduction ratings (NRR), which indicate how much they reduce the sound level in decibels (dB). You should select a hearing protection device that has a high enough NRR to protect your hearing from the noise exposure in your workplace, but not so high that it blocks out important signals or communication. You should also consider the comfort, fit, and ease of use of the hearing protection device, as well as any special features or requirements, such as compatibility with other personal protective equipment (PPE) or electronic communication systems.
- Clean and inspect regularly:
The second step to maintaining your hearing protection equipment is to clean and inspect it regularly. Cleaning your hearing protection device will help prevent the buildup of dirt, dust, sweat, earwax, or bacteria that can affect its performance, durability, or hygiene. You should follow the manufacturer's instructions on how to clean your hearing protection device, using mild soap and water or a disinfectant solution, and avoiding harsh chemicals or abrasives that can damage the material. You should also inspect your hearing protection device for any signs of wear and tear, such as cracks, holes, tears, or loose parts, that can compromise its noise reduction or safety. You should replace any damaged or defective hearing protection device as soon as possible.
- Store and transport safely:
The third step to maintaining your hearing protection equipment is to store and transport it safely. Storing your hearing protection device in a clean, dry, and cool place will help preserve its shape, quality, and function. You should avoid exposing your hearing protection device to extreme temperatures, humidity, sunlight, or chemicals that can degrade or deform the material. You should also avoid folding, twisting, or compressing your hearing protection device, as this can affect its fit and seal. You should use a protective case or bag to transport your hearing protection device and keep it away from sharp or heavy objects that can damage or crush it.
- Test and adjust periodically:
The fourth step to maintaining your hearing protection equipment is to test and adjust it periodically. Testing your hearing protection device will help you ensure that it is working properly and providing adequate noise reduction. You can test your hearing protection device by using a sound level meter, a smartphone app, or a simple listening check. You should compare the sound level with and without your hearing protection device, and make sure that it reduces the noise by at least 15 dB. You should also adjust your hearing protection device to ensure that it fits snugly and comfortably on or in your ears, and that it does not interfere with your vision, breathing, or communication. You should check and adjust your hearing protection device before and during each use, as well as whenever you change your work activity or environment.
- Educate and train yourself and your employees:
The fifth step to maintaining your hearing protection equipment is to educate and train yourself and others on how to use and care for it correctly. Educating and training yourself and others will help you increase your awareness and knowledge of the risks and benefits of hearing protection, as well as the best practices and procedures for maintaining it. You should read and follow the manufacturer's instructions, guidelines, and warnings on how to use and care for your hearing protection device. You should also seek advice from a qualified professional, such as an audiologist, a safety officer, or a hearing conservation program coordinator, on how to select, fit, test, and adjust your hearing protection device. You should also participate in regular hearing tests, training sessions, and evaluations to monitor your hearing health and protection.
- Update and upgrade when needed:
The sixth and final step to maintaining your hearing protection equipment is to update and upgrade it when needed. Updating and upgrading your hearing protection device will help you keep up with the latest technology, standards, and regulations for hearing protection, as well as your changing needs and preferences. You should review and update your hearing protection device at least once a year, or more often if there are significant changes in your work environment, noise exposure, hearing condition, or hearing protection device. You should also consider upgrading your hearing protection device to a newer or better model that offers more features, benefits, or compatibility with other PPE or communication systems. You should always consult with a qualified professional before updating or upgrading your hearing protection device and ensure that it meets the relevant criteria and requirements for your work situation and hearing protection.
We at PPE ONLINE have a wide selection of hearing protection devices which includes, ear plugs, corded ear plugs, earmuffs, helmet mounted ear muffs, communication headsets from industry best brands like 3M, Honeywell, Empiral, Gladious. We have our professional team ready to help you any time for choosing the right hearing protection for your workplace. Contact us now on info.ppe@ppe-online.com or visit our website for more details: www.ppe-online.com