How to Choose the Right Hearing Protection Equipment

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about 22 million workers in the United States are exposed to hazardous levels of noise at their workplace each year. Here, we’ll take a look at some of the different forms of hearing protection you can use and/or provide to your employees, including their effectiveness at preventing permanent hearing loss.

When it comes to protecting your hearing, there are a variety of options available. 

• Passive hearing protection includes foam ear plugs and ear muffs, which work by blocking or absorbing sound waves. 
• Active hearing protection, such as custom-fit headphones with filters, can reduce loud noises while still allowing you to hear softer ones. 
• Another type of active hearing protection is electronic noise-cancellation devices, which use microphones to detect incoming sound and then generate an opposing sound wave to cancel it out. 
• For people who need more specialized protection, there are also devices that allow you to customize the amount of sound reduction for different frequencies. 

No matter what type of environment or activity you're in, there's a hearing protection option that will work for you.

When selecting hearing protection, it’s important to consider your individual needs and these important factors. 

1. Environment: Consider what type of environment you’ll be using the device in and the level of noise you may be exposed to. 
2. Level of Sound Reduction: Think about how much sound reduction you need and what kind of comfort level is most important to you when wearing the device. 
3. Have You Done Your Research? If you’re looking for something more specialized, like custom-fit headphones or electronic noise-cancellation devices, make sure to research which features are available and how they can benefit your lifestyle. 
4. Comfort and Fit: It can be difficult to find a product that fits properly and feels comfortable. Make sure your hearing protection fits snugly but not too tight. Soft foam ear plugs are generally more comfortable than hard plastic plugs and they retain their shape better. Additionally, look for products with adjustable straps and padded ear pieces for added comfort. If you’re having trouble finding the perfect fit, consider going to an audiologist who can take exact measurements of your ears and recommend the best type of hearing protection for you.
5. Ease of Use: When it comes to hearing protection, ease of use is key. You want something that’s easy to put on and take off without too much hassle. Look for products with features like adjustable straps and open-ended designs that make putting them on and taking them off a breeze. Disposable foam plugs are great because they don’t require any assembly or fitting–just roll them between your fingers and insert into the ear canal for instant sound reduction. Custom-molded plugs are also an option if you want a more tailored fit but require more effort to put on and take off. 

Finally, look for a durable product that won’t easily break down over time so that it can provide maximum protection against damaging sounds. With these factors in mind, you’ll be able to find the perfect hearing protection device for your needs.

Foam Ear Plugs

One-time-use foam ear plugs are inexpensive and are one-size-fits-most.

When you think about hearing protection, foam ear plugs are probably the first type that comes to mind. These inexpensive, disposable ear plugs are the most common type of hearing protection. They’re designed for one-time use and aren’t intended to be cleaned or reused. Foam ear plugs are generally one-size-fits-all and are made of PVC or PU foam that can be compressed and placed inside the ear canal, where it will slowly re-expand. Foam ear plugs are available both with and without a pre-attached cord, and their Noise Reduction Rating (NRR) ranges from 26 to 34 dB.

Flanged Ear Plugs

Flanged ear plugs are durable and reusable, but may have a lower NRR.

Flanged ear plugs are usually made of a flexible material, like silicone, with a tapered shape that’s designed for a comfortable fit. Most importantly, these durable ear plugs are reusable and can be cleaned with soap and water. Flanged ear plugs are available with and without cords and are small enough to be used with other protective equipment, including hard hats and safety glasses. Keep in mind that these ear plugs typically have a lower NRR than the foam variety, ranging from 26 to 33 dB.

Ear Muffs

Ear muffs are bulky, and some models have communication add-ons.

Composed of rigid cups with soft cushions that seal around the ears to block out noise, ear muffs are available with a wide range of NRRs (from about 17 to 30 dB). Although products with a higher NRR are available, they are generally bulkier. Ear muffs are available in over-the-head, cap-mounted, or behind-the-neck designs and can often mount directly to hard hats. Ear muffs are ideal for jobsite communications since many include radio or communications interface options, as well as auto attenuation and sound amplification features. The cloud-like cushions are a favorite for many wearers as they provide comfortable hearing protection.

Noise protection is extremely important in the workplace environment, since hearing damage can lead to permanent and debilitating hearing loss, tinnitus, and other serious issues. Once you’ve determined the right type of hearing protection for your needs, the next step is to provide it to anyone exposed to noise-related hazards, making sure that you’re meeting all of OSHA’s requirements. No matter what your needs are, Zoro has a wide selection of the best hearing protection including ear plugs, ear muffs, and hearing protection accessories. We also carry a variety of ear plug dispensers for convenient use in the workplace.

Product Compliance and Suitability

The product statements contained in this guide are intended for general informational purposes only. Such product statements do not constitute a product recommendation or representation as to the appropriateness, accuracy, completeness, correctness, or currentness of the information provided. Information provided in this guide does not replace the use by you of any manufacturer instructions, technical product manual, or other professional resource or adviser available to you. Always read, understand, and follow all manufacturer instructions.