Posted By Jim Walker Of course the aids will squeal (feedback). Why can't they switch them off?? Your implication that no hearing increases risk is flawed. IMHO a deaf person will cope much better in a noisy environment with ear defenders than someone with "normal" hearing The advice you have had HSE or otherwise)is very poor.

Posted By Bren Cal Owen I had a similar problem in our HPZ manufacturing area, the HSE advice was not adequate because the muff may cause irritation and my investigations revealed that sometimes the delicate parts of the hearing aid may be damaged due to moisture build up inside the muff from prolonged use. I contacted 3M and they have provided me with a solution. They have a product, Peltor earmuffs, that allow the wearer to remove the hearing aid, the earmuffs have a graphic equaliser installed and the wearer adjusts the set to suit their needs, it drowns out the offending noise and ensures that the wearer has enough audibility to hear instruction and activity within the area; eg; fork lift trucks and emergency situations, they are about £140 pound a pair but that is a small amount to pay to ensure the Health & Safety of our operator. Hope this info helps