A sensible approach to hearing protection

The lower level for hearing protection to be required was reduced last year from 85 decibels to 80 decibels. Whilst this will assist a reduction in hearing loss, the standards makers are somewhat behind the pace. At present, the standard test methods for attenuation assumes that the lower noise level is 85decibels and products conforming to this standard may actually reduce the noise level too far.

One of the most usual ways in which potential danger is signalled is by sound and, if the wearer of hearing protection cannot hear that warning, more serious accidents can be caused.

What is not generally known is the fact that approximately 50 percent of all people requiring hearing protection are working in areas where the noise levels are between the old and the new lower limits [i.e. between 80db to 85db]. BSIF members are highly involved in trying to bring a speedy resolution to this issue despite the pedestrian administrative system for the creation and review of EU standards.