Wondering if noise-cancelling earbuds or headphones can double
as hearing protection in Ontario workplaces? This resource
explains the difference between consumer ANC devices and
specialized hearing protection with ANR, and points out a few key
things to consider when choosing the right option for workplaces.
Consumer Active Noise Cancelling (ANC) Devices
"Can I use my Active Noise Cancelling headphones or earbuds as hearing
protection in Ontario Workplaces?" This is a common question being asked
in a lot of workplaces. Consumer grade ANC headphones and earbuds are
not designed as hearing protection devices. Most of these devices have not
been laboratory evaluated to ensure they provide the necessary attenuation of noise. Ontario Regulation
381/15 Noise, requires that a hearing protection device must be selected by "the attenuation provided
by the device". Without laboratory noise attenuation data, confidence in the protection provided by the
hearing protection device (HPD) is uncertain and does not meet regulatory requirements.
Specialized Hearing Protection Devices with Active Noise Reduction (ANR)
The exclusion of consumer grade ANC does not exclude the use of all noise cancellation technology in
HPD. In specialized HPDs the noise cancellation technology is referred to as Active Noise Reduction
(ANR) rather than ANC. HPDs require that specialized HPDs be evaluated for passive noise reduction
using an accepted standard (i.e. ANSI S3.19 – NRR, CSA Z94.2 – Classes). The passive noise reduction
rating is used as a primary means of evaluating protection. ANR has limitations and can fail whereas
passive noise reduction through damping will always be present. The addition of ANR is considered an
added level of hearing protection through benefits beyond passive noise reduction. Some of the potential
benefits and ANR can include:
Improved face to face communication through voice passthrough technology
Enhanced communication for workers with pre-existing hearing loss.
Do Noise Cancelling Earbuds make the cut for
HEARING PROTECTION?
WSPS.CA
