Professional technicians wear protective equipment and hard hats in large industrial plants. Protective and Safety Equipment eye wear, ear plug, vis clothes and protective helmet.

Hearing Protection: Noise Induced Hearing Loss

by with No Comment Hearing Protection

When we think of workplace injuries, we picture slips, falls, and heavy equipment accidents. But there’s another danger lurking on job sites across the country—and you can’t see it coming. It’s called noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL), and it’s the most common, permanent, and completely preventable occupational injury in the world.

The Scope of the Problem

  • 30 million workers in the U.S. are exposed to hazardous noise levels on the job each year
  • 10 million already suffer from noise-induced hearing loss

That’s a staggering number of people whose quality of life has been affected—many without even realizing it.

How Noise Damages Your Hearing

The danger of hazardous noise isn’t just about volume—it’s about how it affects your ears at the cellular level.

  • High-frequency sounds carry sound energy that enters the inner ear
  • This energy damages the receptor cells that process sound
  • These receptor cells do not regenerate—once they’re gone, they’re gone
  • That means: damage is irreversible

And here’s the kicker:

  • Just one instance of extreme noise can cause permanent harm
  • Long-term exposure to lower-level sounds can also build up damage over time

Why It’s Hard to Catch Early

Unlike other workplace injuries, noise-induced hearing loss is sneaky:

  • It usually causes no pain
  • There’s no visible trauma
  • It’s often unnoticeable in the early stages
  • It accumulates slowly, often taking years to diagnose

By the time someone realizes they’re missing sounds—or struggling to follow conversations—the damage is already done.

Prevention Is Everything

The good news? This is 100% preventable.

With proper hearing protection, regular hearing checks, and a workplace culture that takes noise seriously, you can protect your team from lifelong injury. Don’t wait until it’s too late—prioritize hearing safety now, before the damage is done.

To learn more about hearing protection devices, read here.

To read more about hearing conservation programs, click here.

Are you a visual learner? Watch our webinar on Hearing Conservation HERE.

Browse our hearing protection products HERE.

vecteezy_earplugs-isolated-on-dark-background_2841118

Hearing Protection: The Real Sound of Safety on the Job

by with No Comment Hearing Protection

We recently sent out an email about hearing protection, and let’s just say… some of the responses were a little too real. Turns out, a lot of folks already have hearing loss—and they’re not shy about admitting it!

But it’s no laughing matter: hearing loss in the workplace, especially in construction, is incredibly common—and preventable.

The Stats Speak Volumes

Here’s what we’re dealing with:

  • 14% of construction workers report difficulty hearing
  • 7% suffer from tinnitus (ringing in the ears)
  • A staggering 25% of noise-exposed construction workers have permanent hearing loss¹

That’s one in four workers whose hearing is affected long-term. Yikes.

Know Your Options: Types of Hearing Protection Devices (HPDs)

Different jobs and environments call for different types of hearing protection. Here’s a quick breakdown of the most common options:

Disposable Earplugs

The Classic Choice

  • Most common HPD, with some of the highest NRRs available
  • Comes in banded and unbanded versions
  • Made mostly from polyurethane—though eco-friendly alternatives exist
  • Metal-detectable versions available for food processing industries
  • Requires proper training for insertion to be effective

Reusable Earplugs

Flexible and Sustainable

  • Made from silicone, polyvinyl, or rubber-like materials
  • Washable and long-lasting
  • Typically offer a slightly lower NRR than disposables
  • Easier to use with less training required
  • Custom-molded options available for a personalized fit—and even custom NRRs

Banded Earplugs

On-and-Off Convenience

  • Best for jobs where noise is intermittent
  • Connected by a washable band for easy handling
  • Offer lower NRR, but super handy for quick use

Earmuffs

For All-Around Protection

Passive Earmuffs

  • No electronics—just solid noise blocking
  • NRR typically 20–30 dB
  • Great for intermittent use, with features like adjustable bands, padding, and compact folding
  • Bulkier, but easy to fit and wear

Active Earmuffs

  • Use microphones and built-in electronics to amplify safe sounds (like voices) and compress hazardous ones
  • Perfect for environments where communication matters, but so does protection
  • Allows the user to hear surroundings when safe, and be protected when it’s not

When “Too Much Protection” Becomes a Problem

Yes, it’s a thing. Overprotecting workers with unnecessarily high NRR hearing protection can actually introduce new hazards:

  • Workers may not hear alarms or warnings
  • Communication becomes difficult or impossible
  • And if they can’t hear that well? They’re more likely to remove their protection, defeating the purpose entirely

Final Word

Hearing loss is one of those silent risks that sneaks up on workers—and once it’s gone, it doesn’t come back. The right hearing protection, combined with proper training and awareness, goes a long way in keeping your crew safe for the long haul.

So whether your team is rocking foam plugs or high-tech muffs, the key is making sure they’re using the right protection for the right job—and wearing it properly, every time.

To read more about hearing protection, visit our related blog here.  

Are you a visual learner? Watch our webinar on Hearing Conservation HERE.

Browse our hearing protection products HERE.

Protective ear muffs on yellow background .safety first concepts

Hearing Conservation Program: Understanding Decibels, Hearing Loss, HPDs and NRR

by with No Comment Hearing ProtectionOSHA / ANSI

Noise is a part of everyday life—especially on industrial job sites—but when does sound become a safety hazard? Understanding how noise affects hearing is essential for protecting workers and complying with OSHA standards. Let’s break down the basics of sound intensity, hearing protection, and what your workplace needs to stay safe and compliant.

What Is a Decibel (dB)?

The decibel (dB) is the unit used to measure the intensity of sound. It’s not a linear scale—every increase of 3 dB actually doubles the amount of sound energy. That means even small increases in dB can have a big impact on your ears.

To give you an idea:

  • 85–95 dB is the threshold of discomfort
  • 120–140 dB is the threshold of pain

How Does Noise Cause Hearing Damage?

Hearing damage isn’t just about volume—it’s also about how long you’re exposed to loud sounds and your personal susceptibility. Still, there’s a clear line: regular exposure to noise above 85 dB can lead to permanent hearing loss.

OSHA’s Noise Exposure Standards

OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) requires employers to implement a Hearing Protection Program (HPP) when noise exposure exceeds 85 dB. Here’s what that includes:

  • Limit exposure to no more than an average of 90 dB over an 8-hour shift
  • For every 5 dB increase in noise, the permissible exposure time is cut in half

To manage that, employers must:

  • Offer at least three styles of hearing protection (e.g., earplugs, earmuffs, custom molds)
  • Use engineering controls to reduce noise at the source
  • Limit time employees spend in high-noise areas
  • Provide annual hearing tests for affected workers

What Is Noise Reduction Rating (NRR)?

The Noise Reduction Rating (NRR) tells you how much sound a hearing protection device (HPD) can block, measured in dB under ideal conditions. For example, if earplugs have an NRR of 32, they can block up to 32 dB of noise in a lab setting.

But real life isn’t a lab. OSHA adjusts for this using the formula:

Adjusted NRR = NRR – 7

So, an NRR of 32 becomes an adjusted NRR of 25 dB—a more realistic estimate of actual protection on the job.

Final Thoughts

Protecting hearing isn’t just about avoiding discomfort—it’s about long-term health, safety, and compliance. By understanding how sound works, recognizing the signs of overexposure, and implementing OSHA-compliant protection programs, employers can help ensure their teams stay safe—and sound—for years to come.

Browse our hearing protection products HERE.

To learn more about types of hearing protection devices, visit our related blog post.  

Are you a visual learner? Watch our webinar on Hearing Conservation HERE.

Untitled design (3)

Eye Protection: How to Choose the Right Safety Eyewear

by with No Comment Eye Protection

Selecting the right eye protection is critical for workplace safety. Ill-fitting or improper eyewear can lead to discomfort, distractions, and increased injury risks. In addition to the OSHA laws and ANSI standards, here’s what to consider when choosing safety glasses or goggles.

Key Factors to Consider

Proper Fit

A secure fit prevents accidents and enhances comfort. Look for features like:

  • Adjustable temples
  • Rubberized nose pieces
  • Brow padding
  • Correct sizing for a snug, secure feel

Coverage

Standard plano safety glasses (without foam lining or magnification) suit most workers. However, some environments demand enhanced protection. Overprotection can lead to workers removing eyewear, increasing their risk of injury.

Vision Impairment & Prescription Lenses

With over 150 million Americans needing corrective lenses, safety eyewear should accommodate vision needs:

  • OTG (Over-the-Glass) Glasses: Fit over prescription eyewear; cost-effective but may be uncomfortable
  • Rx Safety Glasses: Custom prescription lenses for better fit and protection
  • Bifocals/Magnifiers: Built-in magnification for close-up tasks

Light Conditions & Lens Tint

Matching the lens tint to the work environment is essential:

  • Some tints affect color perception
  • Polarized lenses reduce glare
  • Clear lenses for low-light conditions

Scratch Resistance

A hard coating extends lens life and durability.

Anti-Fog Solutions

Fogging occurs in humid environments or temperature shifts. Solutions include:

  • Anti-Fog Coating
  • Ventilation Features
  • Anti-Fog Sprays or Wipes

Material Considerations

  • Polycarbonate: Lightweight, high-impact resistance, and naturally filters 99.9% of UVA, UVB & UVC rays
  • PETG: Economical but not impact-rated
  • Acetate: Best for chemical resistance
  • Wire Mesh: Maximum ventilation but not rated for impact, splash, or dust protection

Types of Eye Protection & Ratings

Protection LevelGeneral UseMajor ImpactExtreme Impact
Z87+ Impact RatedYesYesYes
Liquid Splash (D3)NoNoYes
Dust & Debris (D4)NoSome ModelsYes
Anti-FogTreated ModelsTreated ModelsTreated Models

Additional Features & Options

  • Comfort Enhancements: Rubber temples, neck cords, and lightweight frames
  • Goggles & Sealed Eyewear: Maximum liquid and dust protection with indirect venting
  • One-Piece Designs: Streamlined fit for better protection

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right eye protection ensures safety, comfort, and productivity. Prioritize fit, coverage, lens compatibility, and environmental conditions to select the best option for your team.

Browse our eye protection HERE.

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Eye Protection: Quick Facts ANSI/OSHA

by with No Comment Eye ProtectionOSHA / ANSI

Every day, 2,000 work-related eye injuries require medical attention in the U.S.* Even more concerning, 16,000 of these injuries result in lost workdays.** The good news? 90% of these injuries could have been prevented with proper eye protection.

How Do Injuries Happen?

Eye injuries occur in various ways, often due to lack of proper protection or non-compliance with safety standards. Common causes include:

Light Exposure – Harmful UV or infrared radiation, as well as excessive glare

Projectiles – Small particles from tools, wind-blown debris, or falling materials.

Liquids & Sprays – Chemicals, bacteria, or other harmful substances.

Dust & Fine Particles – A major risk in construction, demolition, and manufacturing.

Fog – Reduces visibility, increasing overall workplace hazards.

Eye Protection Standards: What You Need to Know

OSHA requires that all eye and face protection comply with ANSI/ISEA Z87.1 standards, ensuring adequate protection in hazardous environments. Relevant regulations include:

  • OSHA General Industry Standard – 29 CFR 1910.133
  • OSHA Construction Standard – 29 CFR 1926.102

These standards ensure protective eyewear meets strict impact resistance, coverage, and material requirements.

Minimum Requirements for Safety Eyewear

Optical Clarity: Unobstructed, clear vision without blurriness.

Physical Durability:

  • Must not ignite or corrode.
  • Provides sufficient frontal coverage and impact resistance.

Markings & Labels:

  • Proper ratings, placement, and packaging must be clearly identified.

ANSI Z87.1+ IMPACT TESTS

TYPETESTPASS CRITERIA
HIGH VELOCITYShall resist impact from a 0.25″ steel ball traveling:
Glasses: 150′ /sec
Goggles: 250 / sec
Face shield 300′ / sec		No contact with eye, no piece shall detach from spectacle and lens shall not fracture
HIGH MASSShall resist impact from 17.6 oz projectile dropped from a height of 50″No piece shall detach from spectacle and lens shall not fracture
PENETRATIONShall resist penetration from low mass weighted needle dropped from a heigh of 50″Lens shall not be penetrated
LATERAL COVERAGEImpact rated protectors must offer min amount of coverageExtend ≥ 10mm behind corneal plane ≥ 10mm in heigh above and below horizontal plane no openings > 1.5mm in diameter

Additional ANSI Z87.1+ Ratings

For specialized protection, eyewear may include:

  • D3 Liquid Splash Protection – Shields against liquid splash and droplets.
  • D4 Dust Protection – Prevents dust and debris penetration.
  • Anti-Fog (X) Rating – Reduces fogging for clear visibility.

Protect Your Vision – Choose the Right Eye Protection

Workplace eye injuries are preventable. Ensure compliance with ANSI/ISEA Z87.1 standards and invest in the right protective eyewear to maintain safety on the job. To learn more about the specifics of selecting eye protection, read our blog post here.

Browse our eye protection HERE.

*Source: CDC | **2020 U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

painter with a hardhat

ANSI/ISEA Releases New Bump Cap Safety Standard

by with No Comment Head ProtectionOSHA / ANSI

On January 15, 2025, ANSI/ISEA announced a new standard for bump caps, offering much-needed guidance for manufacturers and end-users. Bump caps are widely used in low-risk environments such as food service, transportation, and material handling. This new standard aims to enhance safety and provide clarity on protection levels, ensuring workers have access to reliable head protection.

Why Bump Caps Matter

While bump caps are designed for low-risk environments, “low risk” does not mean “no risk.” According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), head injuries account for approximately 78,000 incidents requiring at least one day away from work annually in the private sector. Bump caps serve as a critical line of defense against many of these preventable head injuries.

Before this standard, there was no U.S. benchmark for bump cap safety. With the new guidance in place, manufacturers can ensure their products meet consistent safety criteria, and employers can confidently select bump caps that provide appropriate protection for their teams.

The New Standard: Key Highlights

The ANSI/ISEA bump cap standard introduces two classifications, each tested for specific penetration and force transmission levels:

  1. Level 1 Protection:
    • Tested for penetration at the apex.
    • Force transmission equivalent to 7.5 J at a single point on the front and a single point on the back of the crown.
  2. Level 2 Protection:
    • Tested for penetration at the apex.
    • Force transmission equivalent to 12.5 J at two points on the front and two points on the back of the crown.

Key Differences Between Bump Caps and Hard Hats

It’s important to understand how bump caps differ from hard hats:

  • Impact Protection: Hard hats are engineered for high-impact environments, offering protection against falling objects and heavy blows. Bump caps, on the other hand, provide lighter protection suitable for lower-risk scenarios.
  • Comfort: Bump caps are lighter and designed for prolonged wear, making them ideal for jobs where comfort and mobility are key.
  • Applications: While hard hats are necessary for high-risk environments like construction sites, bump caps are best suited for low-risk industries such as food service or transportation.

The Bottom Line

The introduction of this new standard is a significant step forward in workplace safety, providing much-needed guidance for bump cap manufacturing and use. With clear classifications and protection benchmarks, both employers and workers can feel confident in their choice of head protection.

At Safetyvibes, we’re here to help you navigate the latest safety standards and ensure your team has access to the best protective equipment available.

Browse our head protection HERE.

women in construction

OSHA Update: PPE must fit properly

by with No Comment General PPEOSHA / ANSI

On December 11, 2024, OSHA announced a significant update to its PPE standard for the construction industry. The new law emphasizes proper fit, requiring employers to provide a range of PPE sizes to ensure that all workers are adequately protected. This change marks a critical step forward in addressing a longstanding safety concern.

Why Properly Fitting PPE Matters

Ill-fitting personal protective equipment (PPE) has been a persistent issue in the construction industry, posing serious safety risks. These issues disproportionately affect women and workers with smaller or larger body sizes, who often struggle to find appropriately sized PPE on job sites. Here are some of the key dangers:

  • Entanglement in Machinery: Loose PPE can get caught in equipment, leading to severe injuries.
  • Discomfort: PPE that is too tight or too loose often discourages workers from wearing it properly or at all.
  • Reduced Mobility and Dexterity: Oversized gloves, overly tight clothing, or other poorly fitting gear can hinder movement and make tasks more difficult and dangerous.
  • Compromised Protection: Improper seals or gaps in PPE allow hazards such as debris, chemicals, and other harmful substances to come into contact with workers.

OSHA’s Revised Standard

To address these challenges, OSHA has updated 29 CFR Part 1926. The revised language explicitly states that PPE in the construction industry must fit properly. This update brings construction in line with safety standards in other industries and aims to reduce risks by ensuring that all workers have access to properly fitting protective gear.

What This Means for Employers and Safety Managers

Under the updated standard, employers must:

  1. Offer a Range of PPE Sizes: Ensure that PPE is available in sizes that accommodate all workers, including those with particularly smaller or larger body frames.
  2. Conduct Proper Fit Testing: Employers are encouraged to fit-test PPE and solicit feedback from workers to ensure comfort and effectiveness.
  3. Prioritize Worker Safety: By addressing the fit issue, employers can help reduce injuries, improve compliance, and foster a culture of safety.

The Bigger Picture

This update underscores the importance of recognizing and addressing the diverse needs of the modern workforce. Poorly fitting PPE is not just an inconvenience; it’s a safety hazard. By providing workers with the right tools for protection, employers can significantly reduce risks and improve overall job site safety.

At Safetyvibes, we’re committed to keeping workers safe by providing high-quality, properly fitting PPE. Browse our PPE tailored for women HERE.

construction tools

Fall Protection: Falling Objects

by with No Comment Fall Protection

AWorking at heights comes with inherent risks, and dropped tools are one of the most overlooked hazards. Even a small tool falling from a low height can cause significant injury or damage. In fact, over 42,400 OSHA-recorded “struck by falling object” incidents occur annually in the U.S., making falling objects one of the leading causes of workplace injuries. So, how do you mitigate this risk? The answer is simple: tool tethers.

Construction workers at night in the winter

Winter Protection: Overlooked Hazards

by with No Comment Winter Protection

Winter worksites come with a unique set of challenges and risks. From shorter daylight hours to frigid temperatures, staying safe requires extra vigilance and preparation. Even in regions without severe winter weather, there are seasonal hazards that demand attention.

Low Light Conditions

Winter’s shorter days and longer nights, coupled with overcast skies and misty conditions, can significantly reduce visibility. In such environments, ANSI/ISEA-rated high-visibility workwear and PPE are not just recommended but essential. Bright, reflective gear ensures workers are easily seen, reducing the likelihood of accidents caused by poor visibility.

Hydration

Hydration is often emphasized during summer, but it’s equally critical in winter. Cold air, combined with the insulating effects of heavier winter clothing, can increase fluid loss through perspiration and respiration. Workers should be encouraged to hydrate steadily throughout the day to maintain optimal performance and health.

Respiratory Protection

Cold air and condensation can compromise the effectiveness of respiratory protection. Masks and respirators with moisture-resistant features and a snug fit are ideal for blocking out cold air and maintaining proper filtration. This is especially important for workers exposed to dust, chemicals, or other airborne hazards during winter operations.

Conclusion

Winter conditions demand proactive safety measures to mitigate the risks posed by low visibility, dehydration, and compromised respiratory protection. By equipping workers with the right PPE, encouraging hydration, and adapting safety protocols to the season, employers can create a secure and productive environment year-round. Preparing for winter hazards isn’t just good practice—it’s an essential part of keeping your workforce safe and your operations running smoothly.

Winter Construction Workers

Winter Protection: PPE for Winter

by with No Comment Winter Protection

As temperatures drop and winter weather sets in, worksites face unique safety challenges that require extra precautions. Cold temperatures, icy surfaces, reduced visibility, and extreme conditions like frostbite or hypothermia become serious risks. Even on days when the mercury hovers just above freezing, wet clothing combined with wind exposure can lead to hypothermia. Understanding how to properly outfit yourself with the right personal protective equipment (PPE) is key to staying safe, comfortable, and productive during the colder months.

Materials for Cold Weather Gear

When choosing clothing and PPE for winter work, the material matters. The best fabrics for insulation are those that trap warmth without holding moisture. Here’s a breakdown of materials that work best:

  • Wool: Naturally moisture-wicking and insulating, wool keeps you warm even when wet. It’s perfect for colder conditions.
  • Fleece: Lightweight, breathable, and excellent at retaining body heat, fleece is a great middle layer.
  • Polyester: Often used in outer layers, polyester provides water resistance and durability, while still allowing for breathability.
  • Nylon: Strong, wind-resistant, and lightweight, nylon is ideal for outer layers or windbreakers.

Avoid 100% cotton in your winter PPE. Cotton absorbs moisture, and once it gets wet, it loses its insulating properties, leaving you cold and vulnerable.

Layering for Maximum Warmth and Comfort

Layering is the key to staying warm in cold conditions. It’s more effective to wear multiple thin layers than a single bulky piece of clothing. Here’s how to layer properly:

  • Base Layer: The foundation of your gear should be a moisture-wicking material. This layer keeps sweat off your skin, helping to maintain your body temperature. Look for materials like merino wool, synthetic blends, or moisture-wicking polyester.
  • Middle Layer: This layer’s job is to retain body heat. Fleece or insulated jackets are ideal for trapping warmth while allowing for breathability.
  • Outer Layer: The outermost layer should protect against the elements—wind, rain, and snow—while also allowing for ventilation. Waterproof jackets or coats with breathable membranes (like Gore-Tex) are ideal for this purpose.

Protecting Your Extremities

Head: A good winter head covering is essential, especially when wearing a hard hat. Opt for flannel or knit liners that fit comfortably under your helmet. Avoid wearing bulky beanies with pom-poms, as they can interfere with the fit and safety of your headgear.

Hands: Insulated, waterproof gloves are a must for winter work. Choose gloves that offer a good balance of warmth and dexterity, and make sure they have grips to handle wet, slippery conditions safely.

Feet: Keeping your feet warm and dry is crucial. Insulated, waterproof boots with rubber soles provide excellent traction on icy surfaces and protect against moisture. Leather boots are a durable option that, when properly treated, can withstand the elements.

Rain and Wet Conditions

Rain, fog, and even heavy snow bring specific risks to the worksite: slippery surfaces, reduced visibility, and increased chances of electrical hazards. Wet clothing, even in temperatures above freezing, can still lead to hypothermia. High-visibility rain gear is essential in rain, fog and snow because visibility is compromised. High-visibility jackets, pants, and ponchos should be worn over your standard winter PPE to ensure that you’re seen by others, especially in low-light conditions or during heavy precipitation.

Stay Safe and Prepared

Winter weather presents significant challenges for workers, but with the right PPE, those challenges can be managed. The key is to dress in layers, use materials that retain heat without trapping moisture, and protect your extremities from the cold. Rain gear, high-visibility clothing, and insulated boots ensure you’re safe from both the elements and workplace hazards. By making sure you’re properly equipped, you can work confidently and comfortably in any winter conditions, minimizing risks and maximizing productivity. Stay safe, stay warm, and stay visible.