Page 19 - Barhale Catalogue Volume 1
P. 19
HEARING PROTECTION
EAR PROTECTION
THE TECHNICAL BIT
EAR PROTECTION STANDARDS
EN 352-1: 2002 - Hearing protectors (ear defenders) - This is the standard that all safety ear defenders must adhere to.
EN 352-2: 2002 - Hearing protectors (ear plugs) - This is the standard that all safety ear plugs must adhere to.
EN 352-3: 2002 - Hearing protectors (ear defenders attached to a safety helmet) - This is the standard that all clip on ear defenders
Product Code must adhere to.
2006020400000
THE SCIENTIFIC BIT
DECIBELS (dB) - Sound is measured in Decibels (dB). You will see this mentioned when looking at hearing protection. When the
workplace environment that an individual is working is equal to or above 85dB the employer must provide hearing protection for their
members of staff. If the sound level reaches 80dB they must look into whether their workforce require hearing protection.
SINGLE NUMBER RATING (SNR) – SNR is another abbreviation that you will see when looking for hearing protection. It refers to the
level of protection that a product can offer. For example, these ear defenders offer an SNR rating of 27.
L, M, H – These letters refer to the level of frequency. L - Low frequencies, M - Medium frequencies, H - High frequencies.
A LITTLE BIT OF MATHS
The dB level of the environment minus the SNR rating of the protector equals the level of sound that reaches the ear.
For example:
Chainsaw at 100dB Ear defenders with SNR of 25dB 75dB that reaches the ear
Something to consider when selecting ear protection is that Noise Level Protector with SNR of
often some protection will be lost because it may not be worn
correctly so allow for up to 4dB to escape protection. 85 - 90dB 20 or less
90 - 95dB 20 - 30
95 - 100dB 25 - 35
100 - 105dB 30 or more
Disclaimer: Please note, this page is a guide to help you choose the right PPE for you. To find up to date information on standards please check the manufacturer’s website or HSE.
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BCS Group | BCSGROUP.CO.UK 19
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