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PROCHOICE.COM.AU

Copyright Paramount Safety Products 2011

HEARING PROTECTION
Noise-induced hearing loss is 100% preventable through
the successful application of engineering controls and
hearing conservation programs, including the wearing
of suitable protection devices such as earplugs or
earmuffs.
One in six Australians suffer from some type of hearing loss.
By 2050, this figure is expected to increase to one in four
Australians or about eight million people.1
Hearing impairment is attributed to exposure to hazardous noise
levels at work (industrial noise) and play (music ear-phones and
traffic). This hearing loss is permanent and preventable.
Access Economics: Listen Hear!
The economic impact and cost of hearing loss in Australia, February 2006.

ONE IN SIX A

UFFER FRO
STRALIANS S

M SOME TYP

E OF PREVEN

TA

G LOSS A
BLE HEARIN

ND ITS INCR

EASING.

HEARING PROTECTION
Facts and Figures

12

Standards Information

13

Earplugs

14

Earplug Fitting Guide

16

Earmuffs and Accessories

17

PROCHOICE / HEARING PROTECTION

11

HEARING PROTECTION

Disposable Ear Plugs

Made from PU foam and are designed to be
compressed and then inserted into the ear
canal, where they expand and seal against
noise. These are economical, designed for single
use and are available in uncorded and corded options.

Reusable Ear Plugs

Pre-moulded from washable silicone to
fit snugly. Corded and uncorded options
are supplied in handy resealable plastic
case and can be reused.

Banded Earplugs
A convenient, easily inserted option for
those who are constantly in and out of
noisy areas.

Metal Detectable Ear Plugs

Contain a metal tab in each plug and a
metalized cord that can be detected if
they accidentally fall into processing lines.

What is the Safe Noise Threshold?

90dB (A) at this level and above appropriate hearing
protection MUST be worn.
What is Tinnitus?
Involuntary noises in the ear, such as ringing or hissing, often
associated with hearing loss.
How can I protect my hearing at work?
The best method of preventing occupational deafness is to
reduce noise at the source by engineering methods. However,
in certain workplace conditions, there is very little or nothing
one can do to reduce noise at the source. In these workplaces,
workers must wear hearing protection to reduce the amount
of noise reaching the ears.
When does noise become harmful to your hearing?
Exposure to sounds greater than 85 dB may cause
hearing loss. General estimates of some work-related noises
are listed in the chart below.
Noise Level Examples

Once these important parts of the hearing mechanism

are damaged or destroyed, they can never be
regenerated, resulting in slight to total, permanent
hearing loss.

1
1
1
2

10 to 13
10 to 13
10 to 13
14 to 17

Less than 90db

Less than 90db
Less than 90db
Less than 90db

Power Lawn Mower - 90dB

Belt Sander - 93dB
Tractor - 96dB
Electric Drill - 98dB
Bulldozer - 105dB

2
2
3
3
4

14 to 17
14 to 17
18 to 21
18 to 21
22 to 25

90 - 95db
90 - 95db
95 - 100db
95 - 100db
100 - 105db

Blasting - 110dB
Nail Gun - 110dB
Chainsaw - 120dB
Propeller Aircraft - 120dB
Gun Shot - 130dB
Rivetting Hammers - 130dB
Jet Engine Aircraft - 140dB

5
5
5
5
5
5
5

26 to 36
26 to 36
26 to 36
26 to 36
26 to 36
26 to 36
26 to 36

110 - 115db
110 - 115db
115 - 120db
115 - 120db
125 - 130db
125 - 130db
135 - 140db

PLEASE NOTE: This table is a general guide only and is not an absolute basis for
noise levels selection as some equipment may operate at different noise levels.
Every worksite should be tested by OH&S.

Middle Ear
Auditory and
Vestibular Nerves

Inner Ear

Semicircular Canals
Eustachian Tube
Eardrum

12

PROCHOICE.COM.AU

Allowable Noise Level Range

Ringing Telephone - 80dB

Loud Radio - 80dB
Busy Traffic - 80dB
Band Saws - 85dB

How does hearing loss occur?

Permanent loss of hearing is the result of nerve
destruction or damage to the hair cells which transfer
sound waves within the ear.

Class SLC80dB

SAFE AREA

Suppress unwanted noise by completely

covering the outer ear. Our styles come with a
variety of features from adjustable headband to
hard hat attachments to suit individual needs.

How do I know when hearing protection is required?

Have a workplace noise assessment done. Exposure to noise
levels between 85dB - 90dB and above can cause permanent
hearing loss and therefore hearing protection is required.

RISK AREA

Ear Muffs

What is a dB?
dB stands for Decibel, the unit of sound level and noise
exposure measurement.

HARMFUL RANGE

Easy prevention measures, including hearing protection,

will avert permanent and debilitating hearing loss.
Hearing loss due to industrial noise is one of the most widespread,
yet preventable work place injuries. Continual exposure to noise
from machinery, tools, traffic and general workplace activity can
cause significant, irreversible hearing loss.
Hearing loss has a dramatic impact on quality of life and may
contribute to other safety problems, such as lack of awareness and
reduced concentration. Correctly designed and fitted ear protection
will keep industrial noise below harmful levels. The choice of the
appropriate protection device for each job is also vitally important.
Research and development by ProChoice has resulted in
hearing protection devices that offer the most effective
protection available. The types of hearing protection available
give you a choice.

External Canal

Copyright Paramount Safety Products 2011

HEARING PROTECTION - Standards

How do I choose my hearing protection?
The choice of hearing protection depends on a number of
factors including level of noise, comfort, and the suitability
of the hearing protection for both the worker and the
environment. Most importantly, the hearing protection should
provide the desired noise reduction.
It is best, where protection must be used, to provide a choice of
a number of different types of hearing protection. Each hearing
protection device is given a class rating from 1 to 5 to show the
level of noise reduction achieved.

The SLC80 is a rating only, by which in conjunction with the

information contained in the Australian/New Zealand Standard
AS/NZS 1269.3:2005 Occupational Noise Management Hearing Protector, the problems of hearing loss due to noise
exposure for a given environment are addressed.
A deeper understanding of the SLC80 rating or how to apply
these ratings to your workplace can be obtained from the
OH&S authority in your State.

If the noise exposure is intermittent, ear muffs are more

desirable, since it may be inconvenient to remove and reinsert
earplugs.
How is hearing protection tested in Australia and what
standards apply?
The SOUND LEVEL CONVERSION (SLC80) rating as applied to
hearing protection devices (HPD) is a simple number and class
rating derived from a test procedure outlined in the Australian/
New Zealand Standard, AS/NZS 1270: 2002.
It provides a simple number guide to the level of noise attenuation
(reduction) that can be expected from a particular HPD.
Because humans are different, the level of protection achieved
for each person could also be different and so a scientific
formula is used to allow for differences.
The SLC value includes a correction to ensure that the stated
degree of noise reduction is obtained on 80% of occasions.
Hence the SLC80 rating. The SLC80 rating is the difference
between the sound level of the environment in which the HPD
is worn and the sound level reaching the wearers ears.
The testing procedure can be separated into two different areas:
1) Mechanical Testing:
Where the device is subjected to physical forces, stretching,
heating and concussion - to simulate real wearing conditions
over a period of time.
2) Audiometric Testing:
This is a subjective test. A minimum number of human test
subjects are selected at random and given a hearing test to
establish if they fall into the category of normal hearing,
as outlined in the standard. The attenuation of the HPD is
determined by measuring each subjects hearing threshold
with and without the HPD fitted. The difference between these
two thresholds is the so-called real ear attenuation of the HPD
to a variety of frequencies.
In simplistic terms, from this data the mean real ear
attenuation and standard deviation (variation) at each
frequency is calculated. The mean minus standard deviation,
when subtracted from the band level gives the attenuation.
HPD are also given a class rating, as outlined below, once
the SLC80 rating is known, and refers to the level of noise
attenuation achieved by each device. The higher the rating,
the greater the efficiency of the hearing protection device.

Class

SLC80dB

10 to 13

14 to 17

18 to 21

22 to 25

26 to 36

What should I know about the fit of my hearing protection?

Follow manufacturers instructions. With ear plugs, for
example, the ear should be pulled outward and upward with
the opposite hand to enlarge and straighten the ear canal, and
insert the plug with clean hands. Ensure the hearing protector
tightly seals within the ear canal or against the side of the
head. Hair and clothing should not be in the way.
Can I toughen up my ears?
No. If you think you have grown used to a loud noise, it probably
has damaged your ears, and there is no treatment no
medicine, no surgery, not even a hearing aid that completely
restores your hearing once it is damaged by noise.
What are the common problems of hearing protection?
Studies have shown that one-half of the workers wearing
hearing protectors receive one-half or less of the noise
reduction potential of their protectors because these devices
are not worn continuously while in noise or because they do not
fit properly.
A hearing protector that gives an average of 30 dB of noise
reduction if worn continuously during an 8-hour work day
becomes equivalent to only 9 dB of protection if taken off for
one hour in the noise.
This is because decibels are measured on a logarithmic scale,
and there is a 10-fold increase in noise energy for each 10 dB
increase.

All references to Australian Standards have been reproduced with permission

from SAI Global under copyright Licence 0912-C043 and is exclusive to Paramount
Safety Products. These standards may be purchased online at www.saiglobal.com
The granting by SAI Global of a licence to reproduce is in no way represented as
approval from SAI Global of any alterations, additions or deletions.

PROCHOICE / HEARING PROTECTION

13

EARPLUGS

EPOC

AS/NZS 1270:2002
ID No 3396

AS/NZS 1270:2002
ID No 3396

EPOU-10

AS/NZS 1270:2002
ID No 3396

ProPlugTM Disposable Corded Earplugs

ProPlugTM Disposable Uncorded Earplugs

ProPlugTM Uncorded Earplugs - 10 pack

Class 5, SLC8027dB
Disposable, PU foam
Hearing protection for noise levels to 110dB(A)
Pairs packaged in individual poly bags
Qty/Box - 100 corded pairs
Qty/Carton - 10 boxes

EPYC

AS/NZS 1270:2002
ID No 3396

ProPlugTM Bell Disposable Corded Earplugs

Class 5, SLC8027dB
Disposable, PU foam
Hearing protection for noise levels to 110dB(A)
ProPlug Bell shape delivers maximum comfort
Brightly coloured offering high visibility for worker
compliance
Superior design makes it easier to insert and reduces
tendency to back out of the ear
Pairs packaged in individual poly bags
Qty/Box - 100 corded pairs
Qty/Carton - 10 boxes

EPDS500A

Class 5, SLC8027dB
Workplace dispenser holds 500 pairs of
ProPlug or ProPlug Bell Disposable Uncorded
Earplugs
Dispenses one pair at a time
Sold Individually
Qty/Carton 5

PROCHOICE.COM.AU

Class 5, SLC8027dB
Disposable, PU foam
Hearing protection for noise levels to 110 dB(A)
Pairs packaged in individual poly bags
Qty/Box - 200 uncorded pairs
Qty/Carton 10 boxes

EPYU

Class 5, SLC8027dB
Hearing protection for noise levels to 110dB(A)
ProPlug Bell shape delivers maximum comfort
Brightly coloured offering high visibility for worker
compliance
Superior design makes it easier to insert and reduces
tendency to back out of the ear
Pairs packaged in individual poly bags
Qty/Box - 200 uncorded pairs
Qty/Carton - 10 boxes

EPDS500R

EPBMDC

Class 5, SLC8027dB
Disposable, PU foam
Hearing protection for noise levels to 110 dB(A)
Uncorded ProPlug earplugs
Sold Individually
Qty/Bag - 500 uncorded pairs
Qty/Carton 10 bags

AS/NZS 1270:2002
ID No 3396

ProPlugTM Bell Metal Detectable Earplugs

AS/NZS 1270:2002
ID No 3396

ProPlugTM Refill Bag for Dispenser

Class 5, SLC8027dB
Disposable, PU foam
Hearing protection for noise levels to 110dB(A)
Pairs packaged in individual poly bags
Bonus re-sealable plastic case to store your
earplugs
Qty/Box - 10 uncorded pairs
Qty/Carton 200 boxes

AS/NZS 1270:2002
ID No 3396

ProPlugTM Bell Disposable Uncorded

Earplugs

AS/NZS 1270:2002
ID No 3396

Dispenser Station 500

14

EPOU

Class 5, SLC8027dB
Disposable, PU foam
Hearing protection for noise levels to 110dB(A)
Internal metal ball and blue colour are easily detected by
visual and automated inspections
Blue metallised polycord prevents earplugs from falling
into sensitive production lines and is fully detectable
should the plug become separated from the cord
Superior design makes it easier to insert and reduces
tendency to back out of the ear
Pairs packaged in individual poly bags
Qty/Box - 100 corded pairs
Qty/Carton 10 boxes

EPYU500R

AS/NZS 1270:2002
ID No 3396

ProPlugTM Bell Refill Bag for Dispenser

Class 5, SLC8027dB
Disposable, PU foam
Hearing protection for noise levels to 110dB(A)
Uncorded ProPlug Bell earplugs
Sold Individually
Qty/Bag 500 uncorded pairs
Qty/Carton 10 bags

Copyright Paramount Safety Products 2011

EARPLUGS

EPSC

AS/NZS 1270:2002
ID No 3396

ProSil Reusable Corded Earplugs

Class 3, SLC8018dB
Reusable silicone earplugs
Hearing protection for noise levels to 100 dB(A)
Comes in re-sealable plastic case
Sold Individually
Qty/Box - 50 corded pairs
Qty/Carton 10 boxes

EPSU

AS/NZS 1270:2002
ID No 3396

ProSil Reusable Uncorded Earplugs

Class 3, SLC8018dB
Reusable silicone earplugs
Hearing protection for noise levels to 100 dB(A)
Comes in re-sealable plastic case
Sold Individually
Qty/Box - 50 uncorded pairs
Qty/Carton 10 boxes

HBEP

ProBand Headband Earplugs

HBEPR

AS/NZS 1270:2002
ID No 3396

ProBandTM Replacement Earplug Pads

Class 2, SLC8014dB
Replacement earplug pads to suit ProBand
Headband Earplugs (HBEP)
Hearing protection for noise levels to 95 dB(A)
when fitted as directed
Foam ear pads are disposable and not designed
for re-use
Sold Individually
Pairs individually packaged
Qty/Box - 50 pairs
Qty/Carton 10 boxes

HBEPA

AS/NZS 1270:2002
ID No 3396

ProBandTM Fixed Headband Earplugs

Class 4, SLC8024dB
Disposable, PU foam pads
Hearing protection for noise levels up to 109dB
Provides wearer the highest level of protection for
a headband earplug
Disposable PU foam pads are ergonomically
designed to fit the ear for maximum protection
Pairs individually packaged
Sold individually
Qty/Pack - 1 complete set plus bonus replacement
earplug pads
Qty/Box - 10 packs
Qty/Carton 10 boxes

AS/NZS 1270:2002
ID No 3396

Class 2, SLC8014dB
Comfortable, convenient and lightweight headband
Hearing protection for noise levels to 95dB(A)
Foam ear pads are disposable and not designed for
re-use
Sold Individually
Qty/Pack - 1 complete set with bonus replacement
earplug pads
Qty/Box 10 packs
Qty/Carton 10 boxes

HBEPAR

AS/NZS 1270:2002
ID No 3396

ProBandTM Fixed Replacement

Earplug Pads

Class 4, SLC8024dB
Disposable, PU foam
Hearing protection for noise levels up to 109dB
Replacement pads to suit the ProBand Fixed
Headband earplugs (HBEPA)
Provides wearer the highest level of protection for
a headband earplug
Disposable PU foam pads are ergonomically
designed to fit the ear for maximum protection
Pairs individually packaged
Sold individually
Qty/Box - 50 pairs
Qty/Carton 10 boxes

PROCHOICE / HEARING PROTECTION

15

EARPLUG FITTING GUIDE

SINGLE USE
Disposable Foam

EPOU
EPOC
EPYU
EPYC
EPBDMC

ProPlug Uncorded
ProPlug Corded
ProPlug Bell Uncorded
ProPlug Bell Uncorded
Metal Detectable Corded

MULTI-USE
Reusable Silicone

EPSU
EPSC

ProSil Uncorded
ProSil Corded

MULTI-USE
Headband with replaceable
Pads

HBEP

ProBand Headband

HBEPA

ProBand Fixed
Headband

CHECKING CORRECT FIT

Hold the earplug between thumb and

forefinger. Roll the full length of the earplug
into a narrow, wrinkle free cylinder.

Using the opposite hand, reach across your

head and pull ear up and back to maximise
ear opening. Gently work compressed plug
well into ear canal, with end level with
external ridges of ear.

Using the opposite hand, reach across your

head and pull ear up and back to maximize
ear opening.

Insert gently until all ripples are inside

the ear canal.

With headband beneath chin, place plugs

into each ear canal.

For maximum efficiency, use opposite hand

to pull ear back and up to open ear canal
for insertion.

Hold in for 50-60 seconds until the foam

expands to fully seal the ear to maximize
exclusion of noise.
Repeat steps 1 & 2 for other ear.

The tip of the earplug should be visible

when viewed from in front. Repeat steps
1 & 2 for other ear.

Push each pad into the ear until you notice

a significant lowering of noise level.

Maintenance
Before handling any earplugs, ensure hands are clean. Always check your earplugs and
discard if damaged, worn or dirty. Silicone plugs can be washed if necessary.
Single-use ear plugs can cause health issues if used when dirty.
If kept clean and undamaged, silicone (reusable) ear plugs should last for up to three weeks.
Clean with mild soap/water and store in a case away from extreme heat and direct sunlight
when not in use. On banded earplugs, clean and replace pads regularly as required.
Proper Fit
Follow all earplug fitting instructions for maximum efficiency and durability. If either or both
earplugs dont seem to be fitted properly, remove and re-insert following the correct steps as
indicated above.

When properly inserted, the end of the

earplugs should be located at opening of
your ear canal.
Test effectiveness in noisy location by
cupping both hands over ears and release.
You should NOT notice significant difference
in noise level.

16

PROCHOICE.COM.AU

Correct Removal
Gently twist earplug while slowly pulling in an outward motion for removal.
Choose Correct Protection
Consider your need to communicate AND the correct protection level when choosing your
hearing protection, especially in minimal noise level environments. Dont over protect if you
need to communicate to work safely.

Copyright Paramount Safety Products 2011

EARMUFFS AND ACCESSORIES

AS/NZS 1270:2002
Lic 20580

AS/NZS 1270:2002
ID No 3396

AS/NZS 1270:2002
ID No 3396

EMVIP

EMCOB

EMPYT

Viper Earmuffs

Cobra Earmuffs

Python Earmuffs

Class 5, SLC8031dB.
High performance and strong durability for
maximum protection
Hearing protection for noise levels to 116dB(A)
Contemporary design withstands abuse without
compromising comfort
Solid, lightweight ear cup construction
High quality ear cushions
Padded foam headband minimises pressure on the
head
Steel wire provides a robust construction to
withstand demanding use
Increased wearer comfort due to low clamping force
Sold and packaged individually
Qty/Carton 24

Class 5, SLC8026dB
General purpose use
Hearing protection for noise levels to 110dB(A)
Solid, lightweight ear cup construction
High quality ear cushions
Inner foam and headband cushions provides
comfort during extended wear
Low clamping force applies minimum pressure
while maintaining a tight, snug seal
Three position headband (over the head, behind
the head and under the chin) allows the earmuffs
to be worn comfortably with other safety gear such
as hard hats, respirators, safety glasses and visors
Sold and Packaged Individually
Qty/Carton - 25

EMHK
Viper Earmuff Hygiene Kit
Replacement hygiene kit for ProChoice
Viper Earmuffs (EMVIP) and
Viper Hard Hat Earmuffs (HHEM)
Contains one replacement pair
Sold and Packaged Individually
Qty/Carton - 40 Pairs

Class 5, SLC8028dB
General purpose use
Hearing protection for noise levels to 110dB(A)
Convenient fold-away construction
High quality ear cushions
Inner foam and headband cushions provide
comfort during extended wear
Low clamping force applies minimum pressure
while maintaining a tight, snug seal
Sold and Packaged
Individually
Qty/Carton - 25

EMHKCOB

EMHKPYT

Cobra Earmuff Hygiene Kit

Python Earmuff Hygiene Kit

Replacement hygiene kit for ProChoice

COBRA Earmuffs (EMCOB)
Contains one replacement pair
Sold and Packaged Individually
Qty/Carton 50 Pairs

Replacement hygiene kit for ProChoice Python

Earmuffs (EMPYT)
Hygiene Kits assist in extending the performance
and lifetime of the earmuff
Contains one replacement pair
Sold and packaged individually
Qty/Carton 40 pairs

Wear Options
3 Recommended positions for wear of the Viper Earmuffs that allows the
them to be worn comfortably with other safety gear such as hard hats,
respirators, safety glassses and visors.
Behind the head

Over the head

Under the chin

AS/NZS 1270:2002
Lic 20580

HHEM
Viper Hard Hat Earmuffs

Class 5, SLC8026dB
General purpose use
To suit all ProChoice hard hats
Hearing protection for noise levels to 110dB(A)
Solid, lightweight ear cup construction
High quality ear cushions
Inner foam and headband cushions provide
comfort during extended wear
Low clamping force applies minimum pressure
while maintaining a tight, snug seal
Sold and Packaged Individually
Qty/Carton - 25

PROCHOICE / HEARING PROTECTION

17