Noise and hearing protection

Hearing loss is permanent and builds up slowly. If you have to shout to be heard at arm's length, it's too loud.

Key points

• Wear plugs or muffs around loud tools and equipment.
• Roll foam plugs thin and let them expand fully in the ear.
• Keep protection on for the whole loud task.
• Ringing ears after work is a warning sign.
• Hearing protection works off the job too.

Ask the crew

• Which tasks today are loud enough for protection?
• Does everyone have plugs or muffs?