Protect your hearing today for a better tomorrow
Construction sites are among the noisiest work environments, with equipment such as jackhammers, drills, bulldozers, and saws regularly producing sound levels above 85 decibels (dB)—the threshold where prolonged exposure can cause permanent hearing damage. Protecting your hearing is essential for your health, safety, and long-term quality of life.
Know the Hazards
Noise-induced hearing loss is gradual and often goes unnoticed until it’s too late. Regular exposure to high noise levels damages the tiny hair cells in the inner ear that transmit sound signals to the brain. Once damaged, these cells do not regenerate.
Use the Right Hearing Protection
Always wear approved hearing protection devices (HPDs) such as earplugs or earmuffs when noise levels exceed 85 dB. Foam earplugs are lightweight and disposable, ideal for short-term use. Earmuffs provide better protection for intermittent noise exposure or when workers frequently enter and exit noisy areas. For maximum protection, use both together in extremely loud environments.
Ensure Proper Fit
Hearing protection is only effective if it fits correctly. Earplugs should seal the ear canal snugly, while earmuffs must cover the entire ear without gaps. Improperly fitted protection can reduce noise reduction by as much as half.
Maintain and Replace Equipment
Keep earmuffs clean and replace worn-out cushions regularly. Disposable earplugs should be discarded after use to prevent ear infections.
Monitor Noise Levels
Our customers use sound level meters or dosimeters to assess noise exposure and ensure compliance with OSHA’s permissible exposure limits (PEL).
Protecting your hearing today ensures you can enjoy a safe, productive, and sound-filled life tomorrow.
Prioritize safety at all times
Questions or concerns about your safety on the job? Please call your local PRST team. You can also learn more about our safety policies on our Tradesperson Resource Center.
