ActSafe - Module 4: Manufacturing

NOISE

Within the Manufacturing Industry, you may work with noisy power tools and machinery. Examples could include routers and planers, power presses, and a variety of cutting tools.

It is the responsibility of your employer to provide the correct personal hearing protectors. Personal hearing protectors (earmuffs and earplugs) should be used as a temporary measure or as a last resort if the noise cannot be removed at the source.

When someone loses their hearing, it can be
devastating for themselves and annoying
for others around them. Hearing loss
can also cause people to become
less efficient at work and study.

Some early warning signs that hearing loss has occurred include:

ringing in the ears after a noisy activity;
having difficulty understanding what people say;
needing to turn the volume up to hear the radio or television when others appear to hear adequately; and
failing to hear background noises such as a ringing telephone or doorbell.

If you are experiencing any of the warning signs of hearing loss, discuss ways to control and reduce your exposure to the noise with your supervisor and Health and Safety Representative.

Every effort should be made to
reduce the noise at the source.

Hearing protectors should be regularly cleaned and maintained. Worn or damaged parts should be replaced and protectors kept near the area of noisy activity.

Headphones for radios and tape recorders do not provide protection from noise.

People do not become "used" to noise. It only seems that way because of hearing loss.

Lost hearing is gone forever.