HEARING CONSERVATION

 

The NRR (Noise Reduction Rating) stated on hearing products is based on testing performed in a laboratory that is accredited under the U.S. Department of Commerce (National institute of Standards  and  Technology) National Voluntary Laboratory Accreditation Program (NVLAP) for testing hearing protection according to ANSI S3.19-1974 (American National Standards Institute).  Testing to ANSI S3.19 is the procedure currently specified by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) under their hearing protector labeling regulation.  Most manufacturers recognize the value of testing in a NVLAP accredited lab, and insist on evaluating their hearing protectors in these labs.

 

Research has shown that NRRs are not a suitable measure of actual workplace protection.  A better estimate can be obtained by de-rating the labeled NRR of any hearing protector by 50%.  Hearing protector manufacturers are leading efforts to develop and implement hearing protector testing (ANSI S12.6-1997, Method B) and ratings that more accurately reflect actual workplace performance.  Contact us for Method B data and additional details. FOR YOUR PROTECTION, INSIST ON PRODUCTS TESTED IN AN ACCREDITED LABORATORY.

 

The Hearing Conservation Amendment

 

The U.S. Department of Labor Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has a set of guidelines and required components for a hearing program [ OSHA (1983). “ Occupational noise Exposure; hearing conservation Amendment,” Fed. Register 48 (46), 9738-9783]. A poster featuring the Hearing conservation Amendment is available for posting in your facility. Contact us for this and other hearing conservation amendment materials.

 

What is the Noise Reduction Rating?

 

The Noise Reduction Rating (NRR) is a measuring system to determine the success of a hearing protector as it filters out and reduces noise, as specified by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).  The larger the number, the greater the protection and noise reduction. When utilizing two hearing protectors, the NRR approximately delivers five additional decibels of protection more than the higher of the two rated protectors. For example, using earplugs with a NRR of 28 decibels along with earmuffs with a NRR of 26 decibels would give a worker a total of 33 decibels. Protection against the effects of noise exposure must be provided when the sound levels exceed those in the table below when measured on the A scale of a standard sound meter at slow response. Employers shall make hearing protectors available to all employees exposed to an 8 -hour time-weighted average of 85 decibels or greater at no cost to the employees.

 

   

 

Material

 

Foam

low and medium pressure foam. self-adjusts for a comfortable fit.

 

Molded

soft and pliable. ideal for long-wearing or multiple-use applications.

 

Conforming Material Technology

the ultimate fit. changes shape with body heat to conform to every individual wearer. the longer it is worn, the better it fits.

 

Shape

 

Flange

distributes pressure evenly on the ear canal to deliver unmatched comfort and superior attenuation.

 

Bell

flared shape provides superior attenuation.    

                                                                                        

T

contoured for easy insertion and comfortable long-term wear.       

                                                               

Pill

two sizes in one provides more fit options with a single product.         

                                                  

Cylinder

contoured to fit the shape of the ear canal.    

                                                                                

Flat Arrow

fits easily inside the ear canal opening and provides excellent protection.   

         

Oval Pad

fits just outside the opening of the ear canal for wearer comfort.