Good hearing protection protects the hearing from noise damage. But only if that protection actually works well. Especially when it comes to customized hearing protection, such as otoplastics, control is crucial.

Wear, dirt, deformation or a poor fit can cause the hearing to be inadequately protected unnoticed. And that poses risks, even if everything seems fine from the outside. The danger of false security is always lurking.

The damping of an otoplasty depends on the correct fit and a well-functioning filter. If one of these two is wrong, harmful noise can still reach the inner ear. That is why regular maintenance and inspection is not a formality, but an essential part of working safely.

When should hearing protection be replaced?

Hearing protection doesn't last forever. Even custom work such as otoplastics can wear out, deform or function less well due to daily use. That's why it's important to know when replacement is required.

The time of replacement depends on various factors. Examples include intensity of use, type of hearing protection, hygiene and changes in the work environment. Below you can read when replacement is necessary or recommended.

1. In case of visible wear or damage

If hearing protectors are visibly worn, deformed or damaged, they should be replaced immediately. Think of torn edges, a dull filter or loss of flexibility. Bee customized hearing protection, such as otoplastics, can also change the fit due to use or because the ear itself changes slightly.

2. With a fixed period of use

Some hearing protectors, such as disposable products or universal caps, are designed for limited use. But custom-made otoplastics also have a lifespan. Manufacturers usually provide a guideline of four to five yearsdepending on use and maintenance.

3. When working environment changes

If the noise level or the nature of the work changes, hearing protection should also be evaluated. A filter that was suitable for 85 dB (A) may be insufficient at 100 dB (A). In that case, a different type of filter or even a different hearing protector is needed.

4. In case of structural contamination or poor maintenance

Replacement is also necessary if hearing protectors have been poorly maintained or insufficiently cleaned for a long time. Custom-made caps that are never cleaned, for example, can become clogged or lose their shape.

5. When using disposable products temporarily

Disposable earplugs should be replaced after each use. Reuse can lead to reduced effectiveness and increased risk of infections.

How often should hearing protection be tested at different dB levels?

Not every workplace is equally noisy. That is why the frequency with which hearing protection must be tested also differs. The higher the noise level, the more frequent monitoring is required.

This is extra important in the case of otoplastics, because the effect depends on a good fit and a well-functioning filter. The longer you wait to test, the greater the chance that the protection will decrease unnoticed.

The table below provides an overview of the recommended test frequency based on the average noise level at the workplace:

These guidelines are intended for customized hearing protection, such as otoplastics. Standard earplugs and earmuffs require regular replacement or visual inspection, but structural testing usually does not apply there.

Please note: these are general recommendations. Employers can, based on the risk inventory (RI&E) decide to test more often, for example when there is extreme noise or if hearing damage has occurred in the past.

Who is responsible for monitoring and maintenance?

Good hearing protection starts with the right choice, but doesn't end there. Regular monitoring and proper maintenance are essential to continue to protect the hearing in the long term. But who is actually responsible for that?

According to the Working Conditions Act The primary responsibility lies with the employer. It must ensure a safe working environment and that includes appropriate hearing protection. But that doesn't mean that employees don't have a role. On the contrary: it is a shared responsibility.

What is expected of the employer?

The employer is responsible for providing appropriate hearing protection. But also for carrying out risk inventories, planning checks and providing information about proper use.

Also read: Does an employer have to reimburse customized hearing protection?

Customized hearing protection also includes keeping track of test moments. Especially at higher noise levels, it is important that there is a system to ensure that caps are checked or replaced in time.

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What is expected of the employee?

Workers are required to use available hearing protection as prescribed. In addition, they must handle the material carefully.

That means: keep it clean, store properly and report it in time if something no longer works or sits properly. A poor fit can have major consequences, especially when it comes to otoplastics. It is therefore important that users recognize the difference between a well-functioning protector and a worn one.

What exactly does an audit or inspection mean?

A customized hearing protection check is more than just seeing if it still looks good. Especially when it comes to otoplastics, it's about fit, functionality and damping. Only when all these parts are in order will the hearing remain well protected.

During an inspection or test, the following components are checked:

Fit control

A person's ear canal may change slightly over time. Think of weight change, growth or simply wear and tear of the material. That is why it is important to regularly test whether the otoplasty is still concluding properly. Minimal leakage can already cause a significant loss of protection.

Visual inspection

We look at damage, deformation, dehydration or contamination. Especially when used daily, edges can wear out or filters become clogged. Discoloration or small cracks are also signs that replacement is necessary.

Damping test

Professional checks often also measure attenuation, for example with an in-ear leak test or an acoustic measurement. This checks whether the filter is still functioning as intended and that there are no sound leaks.

Check the filter

Filters can become clogged by dust or dirt. Inspection checks whether the filter is still clean and whether the correct damping value still applies to the work situation. Sometimes it is necessary to adjust the filter when the conditions have changed.

Review maintenance instructions

Finally, it is often also discussed how to maintain hearing protection. This includes cleaning advice, how to store and when to contact us for a re-inspection.