How To Select The Right Hearing Protectors?

Answer 1

Hearing protectors are a wise investment for anyone who will be exposed to loud noises. There are several different types of hearing protectors; which type to choose depends on the circumstances that require it. A common misconception is that short-term exposure to loud noises does not warrant hearing protectors, but this is wrong. Even if short-term exposure to loud noise will be an issue, hearing protectors should be used. Jobs that require hearing protectors must provide them to employees, along with a disclosure of noise dangers. This article will discuss the different types of hearing protectors, when to use them and what to look for.

Ear plugs are a common type of hearing protector. Usually ear plugs are a sponge-like consistency, designed to be pinched down, put in the ear canal and then they will expand to fit in the canal snugly. This type of hearing protection will suffice for short-term exposure to loud noise. For example, if a man decided to shoot in the countryside for a day with a friend, instead of purchasing expensive headphones, he could buy a set of ear plugs. Typical ear plugs are not the best choice for long-term noise exposure, such as in a factory. If the ear plugs are specially designed and are approved for the specific job, this would be an exception for safety. Ear plugs will ideally have a cord so that they may be removed and hung around the back of the neck, instead of placing them in pockets.

Ear muffs are usually bought by people who make frequent trips to a shooting range or work in a factory where continual exposure to loud noises is unavoidable. There are several different types of ear muffs, with minimal to extreme protection. Most ear muffs are adjustable and some are specially designed for comfort. Battery-operated muffs that dull loud noises and permit lower noises, such as voices, also exist. They are more expensive, but are used frequently by people who work on a factory line with others and must communicate with them.

Semi-insert ear plugs are a cross between ear plugs and ear muffs. There are special designs for workers who are exposed to higher levels of noise. The headband design does not cause as much pressure on the head. Some workers complain of dizziness when ear muff bands press against their head, so this is an excellent alternative for them.