Hearing protection
Shared earmuffs for noisy work. Put them on before the noise starts and keep them on while you are exposed, even when someone else is running the machine. Noise damage to hearing is permanent.
Shared earmuffs and eye protection at the metal-workshop station
Location | Protection stations in the Metal workshop (pictured) and Wood workshop |
Model | Mostly 3M Peltor Optime I (yellow) |
Required | Wood room rules require hearing protection and prohibit headphones; also follow the Metal room and machine instructions |
When to use
Woodworking: sawing, planing, routing and sanding.
Metalworking: cutting and grinding.
Impact work: hammering, chiselling and repeated striking.
How much protection you need depends on the noise level and how long you are exposed. One model is not automatically enough for every task.
Safety
People nearby are exposed too. Warn them before loud work starts so they can protect themselves or leave.
Ordinary headphones, earbuds and consumer noise cancelling are not hearing protection.
Cut the noise where you can: the right tool and method, maintained equipment, closed enclosures, and no unnecessary machine running. Take breaks somewhere quiet.
How to use
Inspect. Choose another pair if a cushion is cracked, hardened, flattened or damaged.
Cover both ears. Put the headband over your head and adjust the cups until the cushions seal all the way round.
Keep the seal clear. Move hair and clothing out of the way. Thick glasses arms and goggle or respirator straps can leave gaps, so fit all your protection together, keeping the required eye protection on.
Keep them on. Move somewhere quiet before lifting a cup to talk.
The attenuation printed on the earmuffs is a lab rating; a poor fit gives much less.
Maintenance
Wipe the cups and cushions with mild detergent and water. Don't immerse them or use solvents.
Let them dry, then hang them back at the station without crushing the cushions.
Set aside and report damaged pairs rather than leaving them on the rack.
Documents
Not yet documented
Where replacement cushions are kept, and who replaces them
Photo of the wood-workshop station