The topic of music on a construction site will generate mixed reactions depending on who you talk to. Some sites allow it and others don’t, for a variety of reasons. Recently, there have been a few emerging headphone brands that limit the playback volume and also provide external noise reduction. In a recent “Standard Interpretation” letter, OSHA has clarified its stance on this technology.
In the September 2019 letter, this question was posed to OSHA: “Is there a specific OSHA regulation that prohibits the use of headphones to listen to music on a construction site?”
As you may already know, there is no specific standard that covers or prohibits the use of headphones, but OSHA does have hearing protection requirements. OSHA standard 1926.52 contains Table D-2, which stipulates when hearing protection is required based upon surrounding noise levels and duration of exposure.
So while OSHA does not strictly prohibit the use of headphones through regulation, they do caution that their use may possibly create or augment other hazards throughout the jobsite. For instance, workers need to be able to clearly hear what’s going on around them and to communicate with others to stay alert and out of danger. If listening to music makes it so the workers cannot hear warning signs, then the employer has a responsibility to limit the use of headphones on the jobsite.
The letter goes on to explain that “OSHA does not register, certify, approve, or otherwise endorse commercial or private sector entities, products, or services.” Even though the marketing material of a product may state that it’s “OSHA compliant,” OSHA considers such claims to be “misleading.”
So while noise limiting and reducing headphones are certainly better for your long term hearing as compared to normal headphones, they may still present other safety challenges, such as an increased exposure to struck-by incidents.
What do you think? Should noise reducing headphones be allowed on the jobsite? Tell us in the comments below….
Full story: Use of Music Headphones on Construction Sites | OSHA
Shane is the creator of Construction Junkie and an active construction project manager. In his career, he has managed interior remodel projects, site development, construction safety, governmental project compliance, and facility maintenance. He has a strong passion for construction technology and safety, as well as sharing the knowledge or insights he has gained throughout his career.