Hearing Protection Buying Guide

Ear protection equipment is classified by its Noise Reduction Rating (NRR). NRR determines a device’s ability to decrease sound exposure. It concerns itself with decibels (dB). For instance, a product with a 30 NRR will reduce a 100-dB noise level to 70 dB. The higher the rating, the better the device will protect your hearing.

According to OSHA, hearing protection is required for any employee exposed to 85 decibels or higher over an 8-hour period or 100 decibels or greater over a 2-hour period.

Earplugs offer as much as 33 dB reduction. A maximum reduction for earmuffs is 31 dB. Combining both would give a 36 dB reduction.

Common dB levels of tools to keep in mind:

• Circular saws: 90 dB
• Miter saw: 102 dB
• Router: 95 dB
• Table saw: 92 dB
• Air compressor: 40 dB to 90 dB

The goal is to reduce noise to the safe level of 70 dB at least. It's smart to invest in hearing protection even if you don't meet those levels. If your work exposes you to high levels of noise, have protection. The same goes for recreational activities, like sports or concerts.

There is no single best material for earplugs. Earplugs can be made from:

• Foam
• Silicone
• Wax
• Metal
• Other pliable materials

The best type of material for you can vary depending on their use.

Silicone earplugs and wax earplugs are used for ear protection from water. Swimmers, surfers and people who work around the water like silicone earplugs. They are waterproof and moldable to help create a better seal for the ear. For divers, it is important that the earplugs are vented. Vents keep the correct pressure balance between eardrums and the outer atmosphere.

Many musicians use silicone earplugs made for the industry. These are designed to dampen volume. But, they retain the ear’s perception of bass and treble levels. This allows music pros to protect their hearing but still analyze the music.

Foam earplugs are made from PVC or memory foam. Most of these are intended for disposable wear. The material allows it to be compacted to fit into the ear canal. Then, they expand to seal the ear against noise.

Metal earplugs are excellent for people who work in large venues. They work well for those exposed to subsonic sound for long periods. Metal earplugs have the density to block a wide range of sound frequencies. They have the advantage of being very easy to clean and sterilize. Opt for a foam-wrapped version of metal earplug. This makes them more comfortable.

Since earplugs fit right in the ear, they're better at noise reduction than earmuffs. This makes earplugs better in loud workspaces such as factories and airports. Their compact size makes them ideal for people who use them recreationally. Earplugs work more effectively in combination with other safety gear. They pair well with protective glasses and helmets. They do not interfere with other required headgear.

Disposable earplugs may not always fit correctly and comfortably. For this reason, reusable earplugs are made with more detail. For frequent users, they can be custom fit. This increases their cost, though.

Look for semi-insert earplugs if you find normal ones uncomfortable. Instead of rolling and compressing to fit inside ears, they use rigid headbands. The headbands have rubber or foam plugs on the end. The headband creates just enough pressure to clamp the plugs in place over the ears. They notably reduce the exposure to loud noises without inserting a plug deep inside the ear canal.

Earmuffs fit over the ear and are easy to adjust. They can always fit comfortably to the head of the wearer. They are great in colder climates since they help keep the ears warm. But they can be uncomfortable to wear for long periods during hot times. They typically have lower noise reduction ratings than earplugs.

Headphone earmuffs and electronic earmuffs serve dual purposes. They connect to music devices while filtering out unwanted background sounds. They also protect your hearing from subsonic noise.

Insert disposable earplugs properly. Roll the earplug between your fingers until the foam compresses into a thin tube. It takes about 30 seconds. Pull up on the top of ear to open the ear cavity. Insert the earplug. Allow the foam to expand in place to fit the ear, about 30 seconds.

Clean or discard earplugs daily. If clogged or dirty, earplugs can introduce bacteria. Dirty earplugs can lead to ear infections. Discard foam earplugs and use a fresh pair each day. Clean reusable earplugs daily. Use a peroxide, soap and water mixture and a small brush. Dry thoroughly before re-inserting in the ear.

Pay attention to earwax buildup. Daily earplug wear can cause wax to build up, which can in turn lead to ear problems. See a professional for any ear pain, sound distortion or ringing in ears. Pay attention to itching, unpleasant odor or discharge from your ears. A stuffed-up feeling can also indicate hearing impairment. Consult a hearing health professional, even if there is no pain. Hearing loss has been linked to other physical and emotional ailments. Chronic hearing loss can lead to depression, dementia and Alzheimer’s.

The type of hearing protection you use depends on where and how you'll use it.

• Ear plugs are the most versatile and protective form for hearing protection.
• Musicians should use hi-fidelity ear plugs. These are made specifically for the music industry. They protect ears from loud volume and certain bass frequencies. They still allow musicians to hear the sounds they need with little pitch and tone distortion.
• Sports ear plugs are all useful for blocking loud sounds. People who participate in water sports such as swimming, diving or water polo should use vented ear plugs. These block sound and water intrusion, but help regulate pressure on the ear. Left unchecked, any sudden changes to the pressure in the ear can cause problems. Plugs protect you from swimmer's ear, ear pain and other damage.
• Factory workers, construction workers or those employed in daily loud environments should use custom earplugs. They are initially more expensive than disposable foam plugs. But a custom pair will last longer. They'll fit more comfortably and provide better protection.
• Hearing protection in most sports can be accomplished with earplugs alone. Shooting enthusiasts should combine ear plugs with earmuff-style hearing protection. This is to ensure that your hearing is preserved. The shooting noise and the percussive air impact puts you at risk for inner ear damage. By combining both types of hearing protection, you increase the total NRR rating of your gear.