Hearing protection in the workplace: what are the rules and options?

Large machines, drilling, grinding, pumping, or constant din: noise is the order of the day in many workplaces. But what many people forget is that long-term exposure to noise can lead to permanent hearing damage. In the Netherlands, there are clear rules for this. Employers and employees both have a responsibility when it comes to working safely with noise. In this blog we explain what the rules are and which hearing protection is best suited to your work situation.

When is hearing protection mandatory?

The Occupational Health and Safety Act provides clear guidelines for working in noise. This mainly concerns the noise levels you are exposed to during your working day. This is expressed in decibels (dB), measured in the ear.

  • From 80 dB(A): The employer must offer hearing protection.
  • From 85 dB(A): Wearing hearing protection is mandatory.
  • Above 87 dB(A): Noise exposure should never exceed this value, especially when wearing hearing protection.

By comparison, 80 dB is roughly equivalent to a busy traffic road, and 85 dB to a passing truck. May not sound that intense, but working 8 hours a day in such an environment can quickly lead to hearing damage.

What are the consequences of too much noise?

Prolonged exposure to loud noises can lead to:

  • Permanent hearing damage
  • Tinnitus or tinnitus
  • Fatigue and concentration problems
  • Communication problems at work

Hearing damage is usually irreparable. Therefore, prevention is always better than cure. Good hearing protection is therefore not a luxury, but an essential part of working safely.

What types of hearing protection are there?

Depending on work, environment and personal preference, you can choose from different forms of hearing protection. We list the most common ones:

1. Earmuffs

Earmuffs are robust, easy to use and offer high attenuation. They are often used in construction, demolition, airports or factories.

Advantages:

  • High protection
  • Easy to put on and take off
  • Clearly visible (verifiable)

Disadvantages:

  • Heavier than earplugs
  • Can be hot and sweaty
  • Less suitable in combination with other PPE (such as helmets or glasses)

2. Universal earplugs

Earplugs are more compact and sit directly in the ear. Universal plugs are suitable for occasional use or if you share them with several people (e.g., with replaceable plugs).

Advantages:

  • Light and compact
  • Often cheaper
  • Quick to deploy

Disadvantages:

  • Less comfortable with extended wear
  • Sometimes close the ear completely (awkward when communicating)

3. Custom-made otoplastics

These hearing protectors are custom-made by an audiologist or hearing specialist. They offer an excellent fit and can be fitted with filters that allow certain frequencies to pass through.

Advantages:

  • High wearing comfort even on long working days
  • Good sound quality in communication
  • Last for years

Disadvantages:

  • Higher acquisition costs
  • Personal, so not interchangeable

Otoplastics are ideally suited for professionals who often work in noise and are serious about protecting their hearing without compromising comfort or intelligibility.

4. Electronic hearing protection

These hearing protectors automatically dampen harmful sounds, but allow soft or speech sounds to pass through. Consider ear muffs with microphones, useful for security guards, military personnel or construction supervisors who need to be able to communicate.

Advantages:

  • Smart technology
  • Good balance between protection and communication
  • More and more models available

Disadvantages:

  • More expensive to purchase
  • Sometimes requires maintenance or batteries

Combining hearing protection with other protection

Do you work with a safety helmet, goggles or dust mask? Then make sure your hearing protection stays in place. Some ear muffs can be fitted to a helmet. With earplugs or otoplastics, this is less of a problem, but comfort is still important.

Tips for proper use

  • Always wear the protection in noisy areas, even if you are there only briefly.
  • Replace earplugs or filters promptly to ensure hygiene and function.
  • Keep your hearing protection clean and dry, preferably in a storage box(es).
  • Check regularly to make sure the damping is still working properly. With worn earmuffs or damaged otoplastics, the protection is less effective.

The role of the employer

An employer is required by law to:

  • Measure the noise level in the workplace.
  • Provide hearing protection as needed.
  • Educate about the risks of noise.
  • Have employees inspected when at risk of hearing damage.

But ultimately, as an employee, you are responsible for wearing hearing protection. Think of it as part of your personal safety, just like gloves or safety shoes.

Summary

Hearing protection in the workplace is not a luxury, but a legal necessity as well as an investment in your own health. Employers must facilitate this protection, and employees must use it. Whether you choose earmuffs, earplugs or custom-made otoplastics, there is a suitable solution for every situation.

Take good care of your hearing, because damaged hearing never recovers.


Looking for suitable hearing protection for your work? In our webshop you will find a wide range, from universal earplugs and ear muffs to accessories for maintenance and cleaning. Any questions? We are happy to think along with you, feel free to contact us.

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