UFCW Investigation Finds that Employers are Required to Provide and Replace Hearing Protection
(12/00) After learning how often UFCW members are asked by their employers to pay for lost or damaged hearing protectors, the union's Occupational Safety and Health Office recently contacted OSHA (the Occupational Safety and Health Administration) to clarify that all employers are required to provide and replace hearing protection at no cost to their employees. OSHA assured the union that this is indeed the case, stating that employers should expect a certain amount of hearing protector loss and damage.
Recognizing that individuals may prefer one type of ear plug or earmuff over another, OSHA requires that employers offer a choice of products and ensure their proper fit and use. The foam seal on earmuffs, for example, should fit tightly and the headband should be snug and secure. Wearing earmuffs and ear plugs that do not fit properly can lead to significant hearing loss.
Hearing protectors such as foam plugs should be changed every day or two, since re-inserting dirty ear plugs can cause ear infections.
Inform your union representative if you are asked to pay for lost hearing protectors, or if you are not regularly provided with clean and well fitting replacements.
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