Types of Hearing Protection

Ear protection is an important safety device for many. It is an essential in a number of industries such as construction; train, airplane or subway transportation; factories and other noisy environments. Ear protection is also important during loud activities, such as a day at the shooting range. Wearing proper ear protection can help prevent hearing loss and is available in a number of different types.

Ear Plugs

• Ear plugs are the least obvious type of ear protection. They consist of two small plugs, one that fits in each ear canal to block out noise. Ear plugs are usually made of a durable foam that can expand to best fit each individual's ear canal. Some are cylinder-shaped while others are slightly rounded at one tip to best fit smaller ear canals. Noise reduction for ear plugs ranges from about 25 to 33 decibels, depending on the type of plug. Foam ear plugs are disposable, usually thrown out after a single use. Ear plugs are available in loose pairs and also with cords or a lightweight headband attached.

Ear Pieces

• Ear pieces are units that are attached over the outer ear and have a small insert that fits into the ear canal. Ear pieces, which come in left and right ear units, are usually made of a soft plastic-like polymer that retains its shape but does not irritate the ear. With noise reductions of about 9, ear pieces are not meant to block out all sounds, but loud background noises, so people can still hear nearby noises and conversations. Ear pieces are easy to wear with helmets, hats or other equipment as they fit snugly next to the ear.

Safety Earmuffs

• Earmuffs consist of a headband that fits over the top of the head with two safety cups, one on each side, to cover and protect each ear. The earmuff cups are usually encased in a hard plastic and lined with a soft, padded material. Some of the deluxe models offer padded cushions that combine foam and liquid in the filling that best conforms to the ear to seal out noise. Some find earmuffs rather bulky, while others find them more comfortable than plugs that are stuck in an ear canal. Earmuffs range from lightweight to heavy duty, with noise reductions ranging from about 27 decibels and up. The headbands are adjustable and some fold into a compact unit for carrying or storage.

Electronic Earmuffs

• Electronic earmuffs appear similar to the safety earmuffs, but have an added feature. They are outfitted with built-in mini speakers, amplifiers and microphones. These electronic devices are geared to pick up and heighten surrounding sounds that are at a normal level, such as conversations, and block out louder sounds, like background construction noise or gunshots. The earmuffs are usually powered by batteries so no cords are necessary. Noise reduction on electronic earmuffs starts at about 25 decibels. Some are also outfitted with external jacks so the user can play music or listen to the radio or other electronic device while wearing the earmuffs.