When it comes to hearing protection, there are numerous devices available that provide enough protection and may be required in some cases: Working in workshops and factories, mowing the lawn, shooting ranges, and a variety of other noisy activities. In this article, we investigate Which Ear Protection Device Is the Most Effective and how these devices relate to the noise exposure.
We conducted in-depth research and testing with some excellent items to assist you in selecting the best hearing protection for the task or line of work you’re taking on. For some applications, ordinary expandable plugs are sufficient, however for others, high dB resistant reusable plugs or earmuffs may be required. Read on to find out what we discovered after putting these models to the test.
When it is too loud ?
When a person is exposed to noise that is louder than 85 dB, hearing protection is required. In fact, the National Institute for Occupational Safety & Health (NIOSH) recommends that workers who are exposed to noise levels of 85 decibels or higher at work to be mandated to wear hearing protection.
Among the noises that exceed this level are the following examples:
- Streets at peak hour: 75-85 dB
- Lawn mower machine: 85 dB
- Forklift truck: 90 dB
- Average car horn: 110 dB
- Chainsaw: 115-120 dB
- Ambulance siren: 120 dB
- Rock concert: 120 dB
- Shooting range: 140 dB
The NIOSH even developed a hearing loss prevention program (Practical Guide for Preventing Occupational Hearing Loss) to guide employers in workplace noise reduction and hearing protection for their employees.
Types of ear protection
There are numerous products available in a wide range of designs for hearing protection. While some of these alternatives offer qualities like reusability that may appeal to buyers who are eco-conscious, others are more comfortable than the rest. Here are a few of the most typical forms of hearing protection that are commercially available and are officially recommended by the CDC as acceptable hearing protection devices.
Earplugs
Earplugs are foam plugs that can be molded, premolded, or prefabricated and put into the ear canal. They may be obtained in the majority of pharmacies and supermarket stores and come in disposable or reusable options. Additionally, audiologists and other hearing healthcare professionals can make custom-molded earplugs for you.
Semi-insert earplugs
Unlike conventional earplugs, semi earplugs do not completely enclose the ear canal. A stiff headband that joins the earplugs keeps them in place right above the ear canals. They cannot be made specifically for you, and they don’t always fit.
Earmuffs
Earmuffs are comprised of a material that dampens sound and have soft ear cushions that fit around the rigid outer cups. They’re connected by a headband. And are quite efficient at blocking out sound, shielding humans from excessive exposure to loud stimuli.
According to a study by the Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety (CCOHS) the Earmuffs offer a 20% protection increase in comparison with earplugs.
How to chose the appropriate Ear Protection Device ?
We recommend that you first examine the noise level to which you are exposed before selecting the suitable ear protection equipment for you. Then, buy whatever is graded to that level and you are comfortable with wearing. For extremely loud environments, like as working in an aircraft line, high-quality earmuffs may be the only option. However, in some rare cases a combination of both solutions might be advised. Otherwise, simple or semi-insert plugs are sufficient for several other low-level noises.
Don’t be afraid to consult an audiologist while trying to decide which ear protection is best for your unique requirements. The audiologist will be able to assess your exposure to harmful noises and suggest which ear protection device is the most effective for your particular case, to maintain the health and happiness of your ears.