What Ear Protection is Right for You?

Whether you work in a noisy environment or are heading to a concert, you need to use ear protection. It is important for you to look after your hearing, as it is something that you rely on every day. When you are exposed to loud, constant noise, you pose a risk to your hearing health.

You may have experienced this when you attended a concert and had a ringing in your ears once it finished. You may have also experienced this as a factory worker or a construction worker, working around loud machinery. Ear protection is essential in these circumstances, but how do you know what ear protection is right for you.

Earplugs or Ear Defenders?

Earplugs are usually disposable and expandable to fit everyone’s ears. You roll them between your fingers and place them into your ear; they then expand to perform a tight fit. These offer a comfortable and snug fit. It is also possible to get custom-fit earplugs. If you have to wear them frequently, then this is a great way to make sure you are protecting your ears.

Ear defenders are reusable and usually have cushioned cups that fit over your ears. They create a seal and help reduce noise levels. They are often robust and commonly used in factories or construction.

Noise-Canceling Headphones

Noise-canceling headphones are a practical choice for people looking to reduce background noise in busy or noisy environments, like airplanes, open offices or areas with steady machinery sounds. These headphones use advanced technology to filter out surrounding noises, letting you listen to music or enjoy quiet at a lower, safer volume. If you’re not sure what level of hearing protection is best for you, consulting an audiologist can help you find a comfortable and effective option tailored to your needs.

When Do You Need Ear Protection?

If you are working in a noisy environment, then a safety assessment should be carried out and ear protection should be provided to you. There is a law that requires employers to make sure that the hearing of their employees is protected when working in noise-exposed environments. They are also required to provide you with regular breaks away from the noise levels. When you are exposed to sound levels above 80 decibels regularly, you need to wear ear protection. This also applies to using tools and equipment at home when doing gardening or do-it-yourself projects.

If you are unsure what ear protection you need, you just need to think about getting the level to be 70 decibels. So, if you are using a piece of machinery that is 100 decibels, you need to use ear protection that reduces this by a minimum of 20 decibels. You also need to make sure that when you are wearing ear protection, you can still hear important noises like the fire alarm.

If you want to learn more about the right ear protection and if you need it, schedule an appointment with an audiologist. They can talk through your requirements and give you some advice.