Headphones, earphones or earbuds
If you’re using headphones, earphones or earbuds at Monash, it’s important to remain aware of your surroundings. You’ll need to be able to hear emergency alarms or calls for help. If that’s not possible, don’t use them.
To reduce health and safety risks:
- use a single earpiece when possible to help maintain situational awareness
- keep the volume low – if others can hear it, it’s too loud
- clean your device regularly, following the manufacturer’s instructions
- don’t share internal earpieces like earbuds
- store your device in a way that keeps them clean
- avoid repeatedly touching, readjusting or refitting your device in or to your ear where there is a risk of contamination from biological, chemical or other substances and materials.
If your activity requires headphones:
- Complete a risk assessment.
- Get approval from your area manager or supervisor before using them. This is especially important in laboratories, workshops, studios or any other area where harmful biological, chemical or other substances and materials are used.
Need help?
Contact the HSW team at hsw@monash.edu