The importance of protecting your hearing as a contractor

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Construction sites are notoriously loud environments, filled with various high-decibel noises that pose significant risks to workers’ hearing. From the relentless pounding of pile drivers and jackhammers to the constant hum of concrete mixers and nail guns – the potential for noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) is substantial. The Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety (CCOHS) highlights the need for hearing conservation programs when daily noise levels exceed 85 dB (decibels, the unit used to measure noise) over eight hours, a threshold often surpassed in construction settings.

There are several risks associated with high noise levels and long-term consequences of hearing loss that necessitate proactive and reactive measures to protect workers’ hearing. By understanding and addressing these issues, employers can create safer and healthier work environments for their teams.

Understanding the Risks

Construction sites are known for being loud, with some of the loudest noises including:

• Hammer drill: 120 dB
• Pile driver: 115 dB
• Jackhammer: 110 dB
• Nail gun: 100 dB
• Concrete mixer: 90 dB

The CCOHS recommends that workplaces have a hearing conservation program in place when average daily noise levels exceed 85 dB over eight hours, and construction work often exceeds that. Sounds above 140 dB can even cause immediate and profound hearing loss.

Long-term Consequences of Hearing Loss

Noise-induced hearing loss can impact a worker’s mental health, job performance and safety. Like many acquired disabilities, NIHL can cause someone to self-isolate and lose self-esteem and confidence as they’re unable to engage in conversation the same way they used to. Tinnitus, a ringing noise in the ears, is common for those experiencing hearing loss and can be distracting and disorienting. While there is no cure, many will experience improvement in the annoyance of tinnitus with hearing aids.

Reduced mental health can negatively impact morale and job performance and raise the levels of absenteeism in a workplace – potentially costing someone their job. Construction sites also often have various hazards and NIHL can cause someone to miss the signals that something is happening, causing them to enter an unsafe situation.

Proactive Measures for Hearing Protection

Hearing protection when in loud construction environments can help to prevent NIHL. Earplugs and earmuffs lower noises by between 20 and 35 dB with proper use. Ensuring that your hearing protection fits correctly and is used correctly will allow you to get the most out of your personal protective equipment.

Implementing a hearing conservation program can also help all employees retain their hearing. This would include education and training on the risks at the job site, implementing noise control measures like job rotations to reduce the eight-hour average noise level and requiring regular audiometric testing and consultations to catch early signs of hearing loss.

Reactive Measures for Managing Hearing Loss

If hearing loss is detected, taking early measures to correct and prevent further hearing loss will help to improve employee outcomes from the negative side effects of NIHL. Seeking further advice from hearing healthcare professionals in person can provide the right next steps, whether getting hearing aids, improved hearing protection equipment, or changing working locations.

Promoting a Culture of Hearing Health

A culture of hearing health and safety starts with managers and employers. These professionals must promote a safe work environment and implement hearing health initiatives to provide employees with the education and training they need to protect their hearing. These initiatives will encourage personal responsibility among workers to use hearing protection correctly and consistently, as well as allow them a place to report noise hazards.

Addressing the risks of NIHL on construction sites is crucial for maintaining the well-being and safety of workers. By understanding the sources of loud noise and their potential impact on hearing, implementing proactive and reactive measures for hearing protection, and fostering a culture of hearing health, employers can significantly reduce the incidence of NIHL. Providing proper education, effective hearing protection, and access to audiometric testing ensures that employees are equipped to protect their hearing and maintain their overall health. Ultimately, a commitment to hearing conservation not only enhances job performance and safety but also improves the quality of life for construction workers.

Portrait of Kate Koebel.

Katie Koebel, M.Cl.Sc., is the Senior Manager of Audiology at HearingLife, Canada’s largest group of hearing centres with over 350 locations across the country. HearingLife clinics use the most advanced hearing aid technology, clinical support, and diagnostic equipment. 

Koebel is a hearing care professional registered with CASLPO and has been providing her clients with the best possible hearing health care with HearingLife for over 17 years.