hearing

Hearing Conservation Manual 18 Appendix IV - Training Handout Training Handout Hearing Conservation Program The following points of review are included in employee training for the Iowa State University Hearing Conservation Program. Keep this form stored where you can review it. A. The effects of noise on hearing Hearing can be damaged by loud noise. Noise can destroy tiny “hair cells” inside your inner ear, which cannot be replaced. The noise does not have to be a constant to damage hearing; short loud bursts are damaging too. Your supervisor should tell you which work areas may cause hearing damage. If you are uncertain, ask. You can protect your hearing by wearing ear plugs or muffs in noisy areas. B. Hearing Protection Devices (HPD) 1. Advantages and disadvantages of the different types Ear muffs are simple to wear and are fairly comfortable. They are easy to clean. However, eyeglass temples, hair, and other obstructions reduce protection by breaking the seal between head and muff. Ear plugs also provide good protection. However, they must be inserted correctly. For some, slight wearing discomfort may be expected until the person becomes accustomed to ear plub fit. 2. Hearing protection provided by different types HPD attenuation or the ability to reduce noise from entering the ear is defined as a noise reduction rating (NRR). The higher the NRR, the better the HPD attenuation. Ear plugs and ear muffs are available at Central Stores and have different NRRs, (depending on the brand). Check with your supervisor or Environmental Health and Safety (515) 294-5359 if you have any questions about the appropriate HPD needed in your workplace. 3. Selection and fitting of hearing protection devices HPDs are available through your supervisor or at Central Stores. Follow the manufacturer’s specific instructions to ensure a proper fit. If you experience difficulty in fitting or wearing an HPD, contact Occupational Medicine at (515) 294-2056 or EH&S at (515) 294-5359. 4. Proper use and care of HPDs Clean your hands prior to inserting plugs into the ear canal. Reusable plugs should be washed after each use. Mildly warm, soapy water will do. Rinse with clean water. Disposable plugs must be discarded if they become dirty. Do not tamper with the design of a plug or muff. Store plugs and muffs in the original container or a clean plastic bag. Contact Occupational Medicine (515) 294-2056 if you experience continued difficulty in HPD use and/or care. Proper Use of HPD: MUFFS Ear muffs should be placed over the ear so a good seal is formed between the head and the muff cushion.