Hearing Protection Tips You Need To Know
Our modern world, full of cars, radio, television, concerts, parties, traffic, work, conferences, and a lot more; is a very noisy one. In a sense, we are living a loud life without paying attention to hearing protection methods. But that does not always affect our health and well being in a positive way. While it is difficult to entirely prevent hearing loss, especially connected to age, there are various loud noises that damage our hearing leading to hearing loss and difficult communication, particularly in the presence of background noise.
Keep in mind that permanent noise-induced hearing damage is still incurable, which means that if you are not able to turn down the noise, or move away from loud noises, or limiting your exposure to loud noises in any other way, you should consider purchasing hearing protection. Fortunately, there are some tips that can help reduce the risk of permanent noise-induced hearing loss and various products that can come handy along the way. Let’s review some important insights and tips.
Hearing Protection Tips
Hearing protection is one of the most effective methods in reducing the risk of hearing loss. It is typically used to reduce the noise that reaches the user’s ear and result in the damage from excessive noise. While the effectiveness of hearing protection highly depends on personal and workplace-related factors, it is still well recognized for reducing warning sounds. Considering various factors involved in choosing and maximizing the effects of hearing protection, it is important to take into consideration all the details in the selection process.
Hearing Protection Tip #1 – Earplugs
One of the common and prominent hearing protection products are disposable earplugs that are normally worn in the ear canal. They mainly ensure hearing protection through the protection of the ear by sealing the ear canal. The majority of people have no difficulty inserting these earplugs into the ear canal, but for some, it can be difficult to fit correctly. Most users will also typically need some training or initial help from professionals on how to properly wear and help protect their hearing health. Deep insertion is essential to gain the maximum noise reduction. Disposable earplugs are designed for single-use and cost ranges from $0.50 a pair up to $3.00 a pair depending on materials and style.
Hearing Protection Tip #2 – Earmuffs
Earmuffs mainly consist of hard plastic cups with a cushioned seal and a sound-absorbing lining can be used as another method for hearing protection. Typically, the structure follows the cups holding over the ears with a headband. They are very easy to wear and do not need any assistance. Earmuffs are quick to put on and are clearly visible when worn. Mostly, the headband is supposed to be worn over the head, but some designs of the tensioned headband make it possible to be worn behind the ear. When earmuffs can be worn in different orientations other than the manufacturer’s recommendation, the performance and noise reduction of those can vary depending on them as well. Earmuff prices can vary from $10-$150 with varying styles and noise reduction ratings.
Hearing Protection Tip #3 – Custom Earplugs
Custom earplugs are specifically molded for your ears and are the most expensive of these options to use for hearing protection. They are typically made of medical grade silicone and can be made in several styles and colors. They offer the most perfect seal of the ear canals and can be easier to fit – especially for small or more difficult ear canals. Custom earplugs can be designed to tune the environmental sound to provide maximum noise reduction or to allow some sound in a safe manner. Typically, the fit on the user can be tested and adjusted accordingly in a hearing aid clinic before earplugs are used. Moreover, regular tests on repeat fit are also used for earplug users. Custom made earplugs can be washed and reused for at least 1-2 years with occasional hearing protection use. Custom made earplugs cost ranges from $170 – $300 for the pair depending on styles, colors, and noise reduction ratings.
Concluding Thoughts:
Sound is a major part of our everyday life. Starting from your favorite piece of music, conversations, to the general sound pollution. Besides being our foundation for proper communication, exposure to loud noise can permanently damage our hearing.
Fortunately, there are several ways you can prevent this scenario, one of which is by purchasing the hearing protection required for the task at hand. If you are still unsure which type of hearing protection you need before your final purchase, feel free to Contact us for more information and guidance.