Danger never takes a vacation:
You need hearing protection! Noise is measured in units called decibels (dB). A conversation is about 60 dB, a vacuum cleaner is about 70 db, a lawn mower is about 90 db, and a chainsaw runs at about 110 dB. OSHA regulations kick in at 85 db.
Hearing protection must be worn consistently to be effective, so pick a style that works for you and use it.
Hearing protection has a Noise Reduction Rating (NRR). The NRR is the decibel reduction provided by hearing protection. A saw operator needs an NRR of at least 26 dB to reduce the noise below 85 dB.
Don’t over protect. Select hearing protectors that provide adequate but not excessive protection for overall performance and effectiveness. You must be able to hear talking, loudspeaker transmissions, warning signals, and important machine sounds while reducing the risk of permanent hearing damage.
OSHA Standard Number: 1910.95 states that employers must develop, implement, and maintain an audiometric testing program. A baseline audiogram for new employees must be established within six months of employment, with an audiogram every year after that.
Check how old your ears are below.
How Old Are Your Ears? (Hearing Test)
Some hearing loss is a normal part of aging, but regular exposure of more than one minute to chainsaw noise can also cause hearing loss. So take this test and see how you are doing…
She currently coordinates national and statewide urban programs in water issues, safety training, turfgrass, Integrated Pest Management, and arboriculture. Prior to joining the Center for Urban Agriculture she helped create AWIS Weather Services and served as Executive Vice President and Director of Marketing of that company for seven years.
She holds a M.S. and a Ph.D. from the University of Illinois in Plant Pathology and a Bachelor’s degree from Cornell College. Dr. Bauske has had the great pleasure of working in plant breeding, biological control, Integrated Pest Management, and Extension.
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