Maxisafe-Product-Guide_Email

EARMUFFS
Earplugs, semi aurals, ear muffs and
electronic ear muffs, whatever the level
of noise you need to block out, we’ve
got you covered. Might even be
something you can use at home – or
for the next time you want to rock out!
4
It’s important to choose the right hearing
protector for the right noise situation. Under the
Australian Standard AS/NZS 1270:2002, the
class system is a simple way to select a hearing
protector appropriate to a noise exposure. Once
the noise level in the work area has been
assessed by a noise level survey, the table
below can be used to select the appropriate
hearing protector to ensure the correct level of
protection at the given frequency. Choosing a
hearing protector with a higher SLC80 than
required will reduce the effectiveness of
warning signals, conversations and any other
acoustic communications.
Class SLC80DB For use in noise
1 10 – 13 Less than 90dB(A)
2 14 – 17 90 to less than 95dB(A)
3 18 – 21 95 to less than 100dB(A)
4 22 – 25 100 to less than 105dB(A)
5 26 & > dB 105 to less than 110dB(A)
TYPES OF HEARING PROTECTION
Earplugs have the advantage of being able to be
used with all other PPE items. Provided they are
used correctly, they often exceed attenuation
afforded by ear muffs. Corded versions for
carrying around the neck and detectable plugs
for use in the food industry are also available.
Semi Aurals (banded earplugs) are ideal for
supervisors and managers frequently moving in
and out of noise hazardous areas, as they can
be stored unobtrusively around the neck when
not in use.
Earmuffs are the traditional method of ear
protection but the attenuation characteristics of
each model need to be studied before a
recommendation is made.
Electronic earmuffs provide attenuation
against loud noises but amplify weak external
sounds such as speech.
COMFORT
The more comfortable you feel the longer you will
be able to protect your ears against noise levels,
which will destroy healthy ‘inner parts of the ear’.
It is one thing to test an ear defender for 20
seconds but another wearing it most of the day.
Comfort is the key. There is little use throwing
away a hearing protection device with a
headache 20 minutes after putting it on. To cut
it short, don’t just refer to attenuation sheets,
check on clamp pressure as well. The lower the
tension the more comfortable you feel.
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