Hearing Protection Devices Flashcards

What are the three main categories of hearing protection devices?

Answer: Earplugs, earmuffs, and semi-insert (canal cap) devices

The three main categories are earplugs (inserted into the ear canal), earmuffs (covering the entire ear), and semi-insert devices (sealed against the canal entrance).

What is the OSHA requirement for hearing protector attenuation adequacy?

Answer: Protectors must reduce exposure to at least 90 dBA, or 85 dBA for employees with an STS

OSHA requires attenuation to at least 90 dBA for general HCP participants and to 85 dBA for employees with an STS.

What factors should be considered when selecting hearing protectors?

Answer: Noise level, frequency spectrum, PPE compatibility, communication needs, comfort, and work environment

Selection requires evaluating noise characteristics, PPE compatibility, communication requirements, comfort, hygiene, durability, and environmental conditions.

How does temperature and humidity affect hearing protector compliance?

Answer: Hot and humid conditions increase perspiration under earmuffs, reducing comfort and consistent wear

Hot, humid environments cause increased sweating under earmuff cushions, leading to discomfort and reduced compliance.

What is the difference between NRR and NRR(SF) ratings?

Answer: NRR uses trained subjects for testing; NRR(SF) uses naive subjects for more realistic estimates

The NRR uses trained, supervised subjects and tends to overestimate. The NRR(SF) uses naive, unsupervised subjects for more realistic values.

How should an employer handle an employee who refuses to wear hearing protectors?

Answer: Enforce through progressive discipline while simultaneously addressing specific concerns about comfort or fit

The employer must enforce protector use while actively addressing the worker specific concerns causing resistance.