HEARING CONSERVATION FACILITATOR S GUIDE

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1 HEARING CONSERVATION FACILITATOR S GUIDE

2 What s Inside 1 Facilitator s Guidelines 1-a Overview 1-b Getting Started 1-c Presentation Guidelines 1-d Lesson Plan 1-f Frequently Asked Questions 2 Why These Guidelines Are Vital To Your Safety 4 How Your Hear 6 Noise-Induced Hearing Loss 8 When is Noise Hazardous?

3 11 Hearing Conservation Program 13 Hearing Protection 19 Hearing Conservation Quiz 2003 Summit Training Source Inc. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced in any form or by any means without written permission from Summit Training Source Inc. If you wish to purchase additional copies please call our office at

4 Course Overview While noise is a byproduct of many industrial and manufacturing environments, excessive exposure can cause permanent hearing loss. Unlike acute incidents, however, hearing loss usually occurs gradually over time without any painful symptoms. Unfortunately, it may not be detected it until it s too late. When engineering controls are not feasible or cannot reduce exposure to excessive noise to acceptable levels, a Hearing Conservation Program is required. This Hearing Conservation program is designed to train your employees on Hearing Conservation, including: How you hear What is noise-induced hearing loss and how it occurs When noise is hazardous The components of a Hearing Conservation program Proper use and care of hearing protection 1-a

5 Getting Started Training Materials Collect all necessary materials and supplies before training begins. Here are some suggested materials and supplies. A training location that is free of distractions, has good lighting and a comfortable temperature. Desks and chairs arranged so that everyone will be able to see the viewing screen, the facilitator, and each other. The video, a VCR, and a TV with a remote. Make sure the video is rewound. An employee handbook and pen/pencil for each trainee. Each handbook includes a quiz at the back which can be used to test comprehension and document training. Other supplies and equipment you may need blackboard, chalk, paper, handouts, transparencies, overhead projector, markers, notepads, etc. Additional information, such as a copy of the regulation or other reference tools. Preparation A successful presentation requires preparation and planning. Give yourself plenty of days before the training session to get organized. Locate and schedule the training site as soon as possible. Notify trainees of the training date and time, the training schedule, and proper dress. Obtain all necessary equipment and supplies. Make sure you know how to operate the TV, VCR, and other equipment. Check that it is working properly and replace or repair any damaged equipment. Preview the videotape. Note any key points you want to expand on in your training. Review all training materials, including the facilitator guide, handouts, or any other reference materials. Prepare your presentation, including a lesson plan or outline of the training. Include the training goals and objectives. Some presentation guidelines are included on the next page. A sample lesson plan has been included on page 1-d of this facilitator guide. A day or so before conducting the training session, you may want to have participants take the quiz as a pre-test. The results of this test can help you to determine weak areas to focus on during the training session. 1-b

6 Presentation Guidelines How you present the training course can have a great impact on learning. By following these simple presentation guidelines and keeping your objectives in mind, you can effectively and efficiently get the most out of your training session. Organize Training Time Efficiently. In today s busy work climate, it can be difficult to find the time needed for training. Because of this, it is important that when you do schedule training sessions you are organized and well prepared to use your time efficiently. Whether you use Summit s suggested Lesson Plan or not, it is important to have a lesson plan prepared that you can implement with relative ease. This ensures that time spent in training is productive and beneficial for everyone. 1-c

7 Six-Step Lesson Plan The key to a successful training program is being well organized and knowledgeable about your subject. As a qualified trainer, your job is to effectively communicate a lot of information in an organized manner. By preparing a lesson plan, you can ensure that each minute of the training session is productive. 1. Introduce Yourself & the Training Topic Research proves that audience retention is higher when programs are given a brief introduction before viewing them. Prepare an introduction which identifies: reasons for the training, training objectives, desired outcomes, and how the training will be beneficial. 2. Provide an Overview of the Training Session Topics covered in training When a Q&A period will be conducted Any training activities (demonstrations, group activities, etc.) When the quiz will be given 1-d

8 Six-Step Lesson Plan (continued) 3. Show the Video Show the Hearing Conservation video. 4. Discussion Topics and Exercises You may wish to include discussion topics and exercises in your training session. Some key points or exercises to include might be: The types of engineering controls used at your facility to reduce noise. Identify the types of hearing protection provided, their proper use, and care. Demonstrate the proper way to insert earplugs into your ear. Have trainees practice doing the same. Provide examples of defective and worn hearing protection. Point out such things as cracked linings in earmuffs and worn earplugs. Explain the Noise Reduction Rating and how to select the proper protection based on its noise reduction factor. 5. Questions and Answers Provide for a Q&A session to answer any questions. It may be necessary to review some of the material when providing answers. The employee handbook, equipment manuals and other reference tools can be helpful. 6. Testing Each employee handbook includes a quiz at the back which can be used to test comprehension and document employee training. The answers are located on the quiz in the back of this book. 1-e

9 Frequently Asked Questions How do I know when exposure to noise is hazardous? You cannot rely on symptoms such as discomfort or pain as indicators of exposure to excessive noise. Prolonged exposure to noise at levels as low as 85 to 90 decibels can cause permanent hearing loss without any discomfort or pain. If you have to raise your voice or shout to be heard by someone who is within a few feet from you, then the noise is probably too loud. What are the warning signs of hearing loss? Indicators of hearing loss can include any of the following: a ringing in the ears (called tinnitus), difficulty understanding speech, a slight muffling of sounds, inability to hear background noises, and turning up the volume on the TV or radio even though everyone else hears it fine. When hearing loss occurs, the person often has trouble hearing high pitched sounds such as the voices of women and children. That s because the higher frequency sounds are the first to go. Remember, you may not feel any pain or discomfort associated with hearing loss. What can I do to prevent hearing loss? First, always wear the proper hearing protection when in high noise areas. This includes off-thejob activities, as well (i.e. mowing the lawn,etc.). Second, make sure you are wearing your hearing protection properly. If you are not sure, ask you supervisor or safety specialist. If you experience any symptoms of hearing loss notify your supervisor immediately. And don t forget to get a hearing test. It is a valuable tool in determining if any permanent damage has already occurred. 1-f

10 Why These Guidelines Are Vital To Your Safety Hearing loss that is caused by prolonged exposure to hazardous noise (noise-induced hearing loss, or NIHL) is 100% preventable. But once it happens it is permanent and cannot be reversed. Most people don t think noiseinduced hearing loss (NIHL) is a problem, because unlike a cut or a broken bone which are both visible and painful hearing loss usually happens gradually over time with no visible effects. It sneaks up on you without your being aware of it... and by then it s too late. That s why it s important to be proactive about protecting your hearing. 2

11 The effects of noise on your hearing will depend on the level of noise and your length of exposure. Exposure to excessive noise can affect your overall performance, causing irritability, tiredness, lower productivity, and even temporary hearing loss. Over the long term, continued exposure will lead to permanent hearing loss. This Hearing Conservation handbook explains how you can protect your hearing from noise-induced hearing loss. You will learn: How your hearing works What is noise-induced hearing loss and its early symptoms When is noise hazardous The purpose and benefits of a hearing conservation program. Proper use and care of hearing protection. Other safety measures to protect your hearing. KEY POINT Noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) from prolonged exposure to noise is 100% preventable 3

12 How You Hear There are three main parts of the ear and each one performs a specific task. They are: outer ear middle ear inner ear. Hammer, Anvil & Stirrup Semicircular canals Nerves Eardrum External auditory canal Cochlea Eustachian tube Inner Ear Middle Ear Outer Ear Outer Ear The outer ear consists of the auditory canal and the eardrum. When a sound is generated, sound waves are sent through the air. The auditory canal directs the sound Middle Ear The eardrum s vibrations cause the three tiny bones in the middle ear to move. These three bones are called the: 4 waves into the ear to a thin membrane called the eardrum. The waves then cause the eardrum to vibrate. hammer anvil stirrup.

Inner Ear The inner ear contains the semicircular canals (which contain nerve endings for balance) and the cochlea. sound waves make in the fluid cause the tiny hair cells in the cochlea to vibrate.

13 Inner Ear The inner ear contains the semicircular canals (which contain nerve endings for balance) and the cochlea. sound waves make in the fluid cause the tiny hair cells in the cochlea to vibrate. The cochlea is a coiled, fluid-filled tube which looks much like a snails shell. The hair cells change the vibrations into nerve impulses which are sent to the brain and interpreted as sounds. The stirrup passes the vibrations into the cochlea. The vibrations the K E Y P O IN T Hair cells in the inner ear change vibrations into nerve impulses, which are interpreted as sounds by the brain. 5

Noise-Induced Hearing Loss Noise-induced hearing loss results from damage to the nerve endings in the inner ear due to prolonged exposure to excessive noise.

Healthy Hair Cells Damaged Hair Cells How NIHL Occurs Sound waves cause the hair cells in the inner ear to bend over. When the hair cells are exposed to loud noise, they lie flat.

14 Noise-Induced Hearing Loss Noise-induced hearing loss results from damage to the nerve endings in the inner ear due to prolonged exposure to excessive noise. The extent of damage depends on the intensity of the noise and the length of exposure. Healthy Hair Cells Damaged Hair Cells How NIHL Occurs Sound waves cause the hair cells in the inner ear to bend over. When the hair cells are exposed to loud noise, they lie flat. Temporary hearing loss can result from short-term exposures to noise. When the exposure is stopped, the hair cells spring back, and hearing returns. Over time, continued exposure to excessive noise can cause the hair cells to harden and die. As you learned earlier, the hair cells in the inner ear are responsible for changing vibrations into nerve impulses so they can be sent to the brain and interpreted as sounds. Once these hair cells die, hearing loss is permanent. 6

Early Warning Signs How do you know if your hearing is at risk? Some early signs of hearing loss are: Slight muffling of sounds. Failing to hear background noises, such as a telephone ringing.

15 Early Warning Signs How do you know if your hearing is at risk? Some early signs of hearing loss are: Slight muffling of sounds. Failing to hear background noises, such as a telephone ringing. Ringing in the ears, called tinnitus. Difficulty understanding what people say, especially when background noise is present. This could be the beginning of highfrequency hearing loss. K E Y P O IN T Turning up the volume on the TV or radio even though others can hear just fine. NOTE: Higher frequency sounds are the first to go when hearing loss begins. That s why persons with hearing loss often have trouble hearing high pitched sounds such as the voices of women and children. If you think you could have hearing damage, get a hearing test. Don t wait. 7

16 When is Noise Hazardous? Any noise greater than 85 decibels averaged over an 8-hour period is considered hazardous. The degree of danger depends on the level of noise and your length of exposure. The following table shows the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) guidelines for permissible noise exposures. Sound is measured in decibels. Notice that the higher the decibel level, the shorter period of time you can be exposed to the noise without wearing hearing protection. At these higher decibel levels, even a short period of exposure can cause damage to your hearing. PERMISSIBLE NOISE EXPOSURES Duration per day, in hours Sound level dba slow response or less

17 Take a look at the chart below to get an understanding of how exposure to sounds ranging from 85 to 140 decibels can affect your hearing. These immediate effects can range from no discomfort to noise that is uncomfortable, causes a ringing sensation in the ears, or is painful. Decibels Exposure Effects Exposure over a length of time may cause hearing loss. Examples: subway, loud shout Exposure over a length of time causes hearing loss. Examples: power mower, air hammer, newspaper press Most hearing loss happens over a period of time weeks, months or years. No pain at this level of exposure. At this level of exposure, the noise can be uncomfortable Exposure over a short period of time causes hearing loss. Examples: riveter, compactor, rock concert Tinnitus is a ringing in the ears that happens after exposure to loud noise, such as a rock concert (120 dba). It can be permanent. Comfort threshold is 120 dba A single exposure can cause hearing loss. Examples: jet taking off, shotgun Pain threshold. Notice that exposure to higher decibel levels can cause discomfort and pain, but there is no pain at the lower levels of decibels. This is the range you need to be especially careful about. 9

When is Noise Hazardous? (continued) Chances are, you re not going to be walking around with a noise meter to determine the decibel levels of the sounds in your work area.

18 When is Noise Hazardous? (continued) Chances are, you re not going to be walking around with a noise meter to determine the decibel levels of the sounds in your work area. So how do you know when the level of noise is dangerous? One simple way to tell is if you have to raise your voice or shout over background noise to be heard by someone who is within a few feet from you. NOTE: While any loud noise is potentially dangerous, high frequency sounds are of the most concern because they cause the most damage to the nerve endings in the inner ear. Other indications are if the noise hurts your ears, makes them ring, or causes temporary hearing loss after exposure. 10

Hearing Conservation Program A hearing conservation program is begun in your work place when employee exposures equal or exceed an 8-hour time-weighted average of 85 decibels.

This may be done by the use of a sound level meter or with a clip-on dosimeter that you wear while working.

19 Hearing Conservation Program A hearing conservation program is begun in your work place when employee exposures equal or exceed an 8-hour time-weighted average of 85 decibels. A hearing conservation program contains these main components: Noise Monitoring Your employer will periodically monitor to determine where noise levels are hazardous. This may be done by the use of a sound level meter or with a clip-on dosimeter that you wear while working. Hearing Tests Regular hearing tests are conducted to make sure the hearing conservation program is working. The results of your annual tests are compared to your original test, called the baseline, to determine if there is any change in your hearing. If a change in hearing has occurred, re-testing and an evaluation by a specialist may be required 11

Hearing Conservation Program (continued) Hearing Protectors Your employer will provide hearing protection to all employees exposed to 8-hour time-weighted average noise levels of 85 decibels or

20 Hearing Conservation Program (continued) Hearing Protectors Your employer will provide hearing protection to all employees exposed to 8-hour time-weighted average noise levels of 85 decibels or higher. Training All affected employees will be trained on: the effects of noise purpose, advantages and disadvantages of hearing protectors selection, fit and care of hearing protectors the purpose and procedures of audiometric testing. 12

21 Hearing Protection The type of hearing protection you wear will depend on the amount of noise reduction needed, any personal protective equipment you may be wearing, and the particular job task. Engineering Controls Engineering controls are your first line of defense in reducing the levels of noise. Moving noisy machinery away from employees, equipment enclosures, or the use of sound absorbing material can all reduce the effects of high levels of noise. Hearing protectors such as earplugs or ear muffs are your best defense when engineering controls cannot reduce your exposure to noise to an acceptable level. When is Hearing Protection Needed? If engineering controls are not able to reduce the noise to acceptable levels, hearing protection will be required. Hearing protectors are made available to you when you are exposed to noise at an 8-hour time-weighted average of 85 decibels or higher. 13

Hearing Protection (continued) Earplugs Earplugs are the most common type of hearing protection in the workplace. They can be made of foam or pre-molded plastic.

22 Hearing Protection (continued) Earplugs Earplugs are the most common type of hearing protection in the workplace. They can be made of foam or pre-molded plastic. Earplugs work by forming a seal inside the ear canal to prevent high levels of noise from reaching the inner ear. Wash and dry your hands before inserting earplugs in your ears. This prevents any infections from entering the ear. How to Insert Earplugs To insert foam plugs, roll the plug between your thumb and forefinger into a small, crease-free cylinder. With the hand that is opposite the ear you are inserting the plug into, reach behind your head pull the ear outward and upward to open the auditory canal. 14

Don t worry about pushing the plug too deep into the ear. Plugs are too short to cause any damage to the eardrum. Insert the plug into your ear and hold it in place for at least 10 seconds.

23 Don t worry about pushing the plug too deep into the ear. Plugs are too short to cause any damage to the eardrum. Insert the plug into your ear and hold it in place for at least 10 seconds. This allows the plug to expand and form a tight seal in the ear canal. Remember, the seal must be tight for the earplug to be effective. If you are wearing reusable plugs, make sure they are properly cleaned and stored after each use. Replace them immediately if they show signs of wear. How to Insert Earplugs All earplugs are given a noise reduction rating by the manufacturer. Make sure the plugs you are using effectively reduce the decibels to the permissible exposure level. If you have any questions about the proper use of earplugs, talk to your supervisor or safety specialist. 15

When you regularly need to go in and out of a high noise area, earmuffs are easy to

24 Hearing Protection (continued) Earmuffs One reason earmuffs are worn is their convenience. When you regularly need to go in and out of a high noise area, earmuffs are easy to put on and take off. Inspecting Earmuffs Before using earmuffs, inspect the inner lining for cracks, tears or other signs of wear that could reduce their effectiveness. 16

25 HEARING PROTECTION MUST BE WORN Wearing Earmuffs Center the earmuffs so equal pressure is distributed around the ear and the seal is tight. Anything that comes between your ears and the muffs can reduce the earmuff s effectiveness. Safety glasses, long hair and some hats can all cause an improper seal. If you have any questions about this, ask your supervisor or safety specialist. 17

26 Hearing Protection (continued) Myth: You can t hear while wearing hearing protection. A common myth about wearing hearing protection is that you will not be able to hear co-workers or warning signals while wearing plugs or muffs. Exactly the opposite occurs. In high noise areas, filtering out what you want to hear from what you don t is easier because there is less distortion when hearing protection is worn. There will be a period of adjustment, and often your own voice seems amplified. While this may seem annoying at first, remember that hearing protection is much easier to get used to than a hearing aid. KEY POINT Properly used hearing protection will allow you to hear machinery, co-workers and warning signals more effectively. 18

27 Notes 19

28 Notes 20

29 Test Yourself with This Hearing Conservation Quiz To review your knowledge of hearing conservation answer the questions below. (The answers are shown in bold type.) 1. Noise induced hearing loss is 100% preventable. A. True B. False 2. Vibrations made by sound waves are changed into nerve impulses in the... A. outer ear. B. middle ear. C. inner ear. 3. When the hair cells die,... (Select all that apply.) A. new ones grow in their place. B. hearing loss is permanent. C. they do not grow back. D. the ear compensates for the loss. 4. Early warning signs of hearing loss include: (Select all that apply.) A. ringing in the ears. B. slight muffling of sounds. C. difficulty hearing with background noise. D. difficulty understanding what people say. 5. Exposure to noise levels of 85 to 90 decibels over a length of time does not cause any pain but could lead to hearing loss. A. True B. False 6. What should be done first to eliminate your exposure to loud noise? A. Wear hearing protection. B. Utilize engineering controls. C. Quit your job. D. None of the above 21

30 Hearing Conservation Quiz (continued) 7. Place the steps for inserting foam earplugs in the correct order by putting the letter in the blank next to the appropriate step. A. Pull the ear outward and up to open the auditory canal. B. Insert the earplug and hold it in place for 10 seconds. C. Roll the plug into a small cylinder. D. Wash your hands. 1. D 2. C 3. A 4. B 8. You should inspect the inner lining for cracks, tears or other signs of wear before using the muffs. A. True B. False 9. Which of the following could affect the proper seal of the earmuffs to your ears? A. Safety glasses B. Long hair C. Some hats D. All of the above 10. You will not be able to hear co-workers or warnings signals while wearing hearing protection. A. True B. False When properly used, hearing protection will allow you to hear these sounds more effectively. 22

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