Hearing Protection Advice for Construction Worker Using a Jackhammer

adrian rojas

Member
Author
May 21, 2024
9
Tinnitus Since
04/2024
Cause of Tinnitus
Acoustic Trauma
Quick question, guys.

I recently took a new job in construction, working with cement. Every other day, I have to use a jackhammer, which reaches peak decibels over 120.

I have been using 3M foam earplugs with a 33 NRR along with 30 NRR earmuffs. From what I understand, the actual noise reduction is about 5 NRR added on top of the highest-rated protection, which would give me a total reduction of 38 decibels. That would bring the noise exposure down to around 82 decibels, which should be a safe level.

I had to take this job to feed my family. I have been working in construction for the past six years, and I am 24 years old. I do not want to damage my ears any worse, but I also need to support my family.

Can anyone offer some advice? Thank you all so much!
 
A tinnitus sufferer and jackhammers are not an ideal match.

This is certainly a risk for tinnitus worsening, especially as you age and experience more exposures.

Can you ask your line manager for alternative duties that don't involve using a jackhammer?
 

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