Do Earbuds Protect Hearing? The Risks of 'Active Noise Cancelling' in the Workplace

Thalia Whitney • June 6, 2025

In today's world, more and more people enjoy their favorite tunes, audiobooks, and more through wireless listening devices such as earbuds. However, using these devices in the workplace can create a false sense of security through the labelling of 'active noise cancelling' technology.

Increased danger of hearing loss

While labeled as 'noise cancelling,' most personal listening devices have not been subjected to the same tests as true hearing protection devices. External noise still reaches the ear at unsafe levels, and often the audio that is played is increased to overcome this difficulty. This can expose the user to noise levels that can cause permanent hearing damage.

Allowing employees in a hearing conservation program to use personal listening devices can also put the employer at risk of hearing injury claims later on.

Reach out to learn more about Anadyne's preventative, end-to-end solutions for workplace noise

Beyond hearing damage: danger of other serious or fatal injuries

Personal listening devices are also discouraged in the workplace due to the decreased situational awareness they can bring. Employees may be unable to hear warnings from colleagues, mechanical signals that something isn't right, or even the simple alert tone of a reversing forklift.

In 2024, a young employee in Georgia suffered a fatal injury when she attempted to recover a dropped earbud. Bending down, she became caught in a machine & later died due to her injuries.

Risk of noncompliance with an internal or OSHA audit

When it comes to hearing protection, OSHA requires that the attenuation of hearing protection must be enough to reduce the employees' exposure to 90 decibels over an 8-hour shift (unless a Standard Threshold Shift has occurred). It's also required that the hearing protection has a Noise Reduction Rating, as directed by the EPA.

It's important for employers to note that most personal listening devices such as earbuds do not have a Noise Reduction Rating and therefore would not be considered a hearing protector in case of an audit - either internal or external.

In a letter of interpretation in 2019, OSHA clearly states "A portable music player is not a substitute for hearing protection." The letter goes on to say that the use of listening devices can be permitted at the employer's discretion unless such use create or augments other hazards.

The solution: end-to-end noise management

When it comes to hearing conservation, it's important to view it as investment, rather than a money or time liability.

An interwoven hearing conservation program

At Anadyne, we offer a complete, interwoven hearing conservation solution. From periodic reviews of sound exposure to controls to eliminate the noise, our team is dedicated to persevering hearing health in the workplace.

The bonus of implementing controls & verifying employees are not exposed to noise above the OSHA Action Level? You could allow employees to enjoy their listening devices once more.

Filtered hearing protection

For companies who aren't able to fully eliminate the noise, Anadyne offers custom filtered hearing protection. This is an ideal solution for employees who need to communicate either face to face or over the radio. Many also enjoy music played in the background, while wearing their custom hearing protection.

Click to find out more or give us a call at 888-972-4420!

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Is Your Respirator Program Still Compliant in 2026?

By Mary Jane Bumanglag • May 30, 2026

In many workplaces, respirators are considered the last line of defense against airborne hazards. But even the best respirator won’t protect workers if the program behind it is outdated, incomplete, or inconsistently followed. As industries continue to prioritize workplace safety, 2026 is the right time for companies to take a closer look at their respirator protection programs — not because regulations suddenly changed overnight, but because compliance alone does not always guarantee protection. At Anadyne, we believe employers should move beyond “checking the box” and focus on creating programs that genuinely keep workers safe every day on the job. Why Companies Should Review Their Respirator Program Now Many organizations assume that if they passed an inspection or completed fit testing a few years ago, their program is still effective today. Unfortunately, that’s not always the case. A respirator protection program can gradually become outdated due to: Employee turnover Changes in job tasks or exposure risks Improper respirator storage and maintenance Weight fluctuations affecting fit Inconsistent training practices Missing documentation Delayed medical evaluations or fit testing The reality is this: a company can technically remain compliant with minimum requirements and still experience workplace injuries or respiratory exposure incidents. That’s why regular program reviews matter. Compliance Is Only the Beginning Respiratory protection standards are designed to establish minimum safety requirements. However, truly effective programs go further by ensuring workers consistently use and maintain their equipment properly between evaluations and fit tests. A worker may pass a fit test today, but what happens afterward? Are they: Shaving regularly to maintain a proper seal? Replacing filters when needed? Inspecting respirators for damaged seals? Properly storing equipment in sealed bags between jobs? Reporting major physical changes that may affect fit? These day-to-day behaviors determine whether respiratory protection actually works in real-world conditions. What a Complete Respirator Protection Program Should Include An effective respirator protection program should contain several critical components working together. 1. Fit Testing Fit testing confirms that the respirator forms a proper seal on the employee’s face. (objective testing is recommended to rule out known inconsistencies with subjective 'irritant smoke' methods) Even small facial changes, damaged equipment, or improper sizing can compromise protection. 2. Training & Education Training should go beyond simply teaching employees how to wear a respirator. Effective training helps workers understand: Why respiratory protection matters How improper use increases risk How to inspect equipment properly When to replace filters or cartridges Proper cleaning and storage procedures When to report issues or request reassessment The goal is not just passing a test, it’s ensuring workers remain protected every day between tests. 3. Documentation & Written Program Review Proper documentation is essential for both compliance and operational consistency. A written respirator protection program should clearly outline procedures, responsibilities, equipment protocols, training schedules, evaluation records, and emergency processes. Without regular review, written programs can quickly become outdated or disconnected from actual workplace practices. Don’t Wait Until There’s a Problem Delaying a respirator program review is similar to avoiding a routine medical check-up. If concerns already exist, waiting longer often increases the risk of larger problems later. The good news is that most companies can address issues proactively before they become serious safety incidents, compliance violations, or costly disruptions. A review today can help identify gaps early, while solutions are still manageable. How Anadyne Can Help In 2026, Anadyne is proud to expand its respiratory protection services to help companies strengthen workplace safety programs with confidence. Whether you need: Respirator fit testing Program evaluations Training support Written program reviews Guidance on best practices Our team is ready to help you build a program that supports both compliance and worker protection. Schedule a Respirator Program Review Protecting your workforce starts with understanding where your current program stands. Book a consultation with Anadyne today and take the next step toward a safer, stronger respirator protection program.