Clear communication is essential to maintaining a safe, productive and effective worksite. This is especially true on construction jobsites, where workers must hear and be heard over high levels of background noise. Workplace safety specialist Gordon Dupont cites poor communication as the most common cause of accidents in his “Dirty Dozen” list of human factor errors, which have been adopted as a model for occupational safety and health in numerous industries.
Ambient noise not only affects the clarity of communication, it also can cause noise-induced hearing loss. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (
OSHA) requires hearing protection when the time-weighted average noise level exceeds 85 decibels—a standard routinely exceeded in construction and industrial environments. Jackhammers operate at 125 decibels, well above the human pain threshold, and steel mills have ambient noise levels as high as 110 decibels. Any of these situations can lead to permanent hearing loss, even with limited exposure.
In the past, workers in high-noise environments had few choices for communicating on the job and even fewer choices for hearing protection. Earplugs and earmuffs protect hearing, but make it even harder to communicate. Communication typically takes place by shouting, using hand signals or using a radio. Each option has drawbacks: Shouting can cause dangerous misunderstandings; hand signals require line-of-sight visibility; and handheld radios pick up background noise and tie up one of the operator’s hands. Plus, none of these options do anything to protect hearing.
Wireless Communication on the Job
Recent advancements in technology made wireless communication systems the best practice for communicating in noisy environments. Wireless headsets reduce background noise and allow crews of almost any size to communicate clearly and effectively, even when performing tasks on opposite sides of a worksite. Properly designed, wireless headsets also leave the wearer’s hands free.
Wireless communication systems are available in a variety of configurations and price ranges. Before purchasing a system, consider the following factors.
- Is the system truly wireless? Some so-called wireless systems actually require a wire from the headset to a radio or belt pack. While these systems allow freedom of movement, the wire can become entangled. Moreover, belt packs usually have significantly less transmission range than self-contained systems worn on the head.
- Is the system Bluetooth or DECT? Bluetooth systems have a limited range and are subject to interference from electronic devices operating on the 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz channels. Digital Enhanced Cordless Telecommunications (DECT) units offer up to 30 times more coverage and are less subject to interference in the 30 MHz–1.8 GHz spectrum.
- Is the system full-duplex or half-duplex? Half-duplex systems allow communication in both directions, but only one direction at a time, similar to a walkie-talkie. Full-duplex systems allow communication in both directions simultaneously, ensuring nothing gets missed.
- Are the headsets comfortable and easy to use? Before purchasing a system, try on the headset. It should fit snugly and comfortably over the ears. The controls should be readily accessible, allowing hands-free operation.
- What is the Ingress Protection (IP) Rating? The IP rating designates the amount of protection against the intrusion of solids and liquids into an electrical unit. A wireless headset should have a minimum rating of IP65. This means the unit is impervious to dust and capable of withstanding a stream of water for three minutes without damage to the interior components.
- What is the range? The greater the range, the more effective the system will be because obstacles and vehicles may reduce the effective range. Look for a minimum 1,500-foot line-of-sight range.
- What about warranty and service? Make sure the system is designed for the construction environment. Ask about warranty, repair and replacement policies, and try out the manufacturer’s technical support before making a decision. A two-year limited warranty is standard in the industry and some vendors provide extended plans of up to five years.
Wireless systems ensure clear communication in noisy environments, improving workers’ effectiveness and productivity. More importantly, they could save a life.