Why is it important?
When selecting an earplug or earmuff, it is helpful to monitor the level of noise so you know how much protection is needed. It is also very useful to understand some of the basic terminology and the noise reduction rating of products in order to pick the right hearing protection.
NRR Ratings
The performance of earplugs and earmuffs varies between brands and styles. One way to choose a hearing protector is to compare Noise Reduction Ratings. The Noise Reduction Rating, or NRR, measures the muff's or plug's ability to block out noise or "attenuate" sound. This measurement is stated in decibels; a plug with an NRR of 26 blocks out a maximum of 26 decibels of noise. The NRR listed is the maximum protection that could be achieved if the plug fits the wearer perfectly and was inserted correctly. In most work situations, attenuation is half of the listed NRR. For example, if the NRR is 30 the hearing protector most likely blocks out 15 decibels of noise.
All of the earplugs and muffs we stock have been tested by an accredited laboratory that assigned an NRR rating. As you look through our selection, look for the NRR rating for each style of protection.
How damaging are your work activities?
As noise gets louder, damage can occur sooner. There is no "cure" for hearing loss, so this chart is only a guideline. Anything over 85 dB can damage your hearing.
Chart provided courtesy of the National Farm Medicine Center
How do you know if noise is damaging your hearing?
You may have a problem if you:
- Hear ringing, other noises, or a fullness in your ears
- Can't hear people when they talk to you
- Can't hear high-pitched or soft sounds
What hearing protection is best for me?
All hearing protection equipment has pros and cons. Not one hearing protection device is best for all operations. Skim this list of pros and cons below and then apply it to your operation. Weighing cost, ease of use and protection.
Disposable Ear Plugs
Pros
- Fits many different ear canals
- Usually has higher NRR compared to other protective devices
- Initially less expensive compared to others
- Maintenance free; can toss instead of clean
Cons
- Can be difficult to insert
- If not properly inserted, you may not get the highest NRR possible
- More expensive over time
Reusable Earplugs
Pros
- Easily inserted and worn
- More economical over time compared to disposable plugs
Cons
- Pre-formed, so does not fit as wide a variety of ear canals as disposables
- Must take time to clean to avoid infection
Earmuffs and Stereo Earmuffs
Pros
- Easy to use and wear
- Can get stereo muffs, which makes working more fun and comfortable
- Requires less training to use correctly compared to plugs
- More economical in the long run compared to earplugs
Cons
- Needs more storage space
- Must take time to clean to avoid infection
- Sometimes gets more uncomfortable in warmer weather compared to plugs
- Can make wearing other PPE, such as glasses, more cumbersome
Electronic Hearing Protection
Pros
- Allows for Bluetooth connectivity on the job for music, radio, and calls
- Rechargeable and long battery life
- More expensive than earplugs
Cons
- More expensive
- Takes up more space to store
- Needs to be charged to play music, radio, etc.
- Some styles are more bulky, while others are smaller, like earbuds, which sometimes don't fit all ears
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