Types of Hearing Protection

Hearing protection protects against intermittent, sudden, or prolonged exposure to high decibel sounds (excessive noise). However, such protection only reduces the amount of noise; it does not eliminate it.

Types of hearing protection include:

• Earplugs, made of different materials such as plastic, foam, rubber, waxed cotton, that are inserted into the ear canal.
• Earmuffs, which cover the entire ear; a headband connects two cushioned cups that cover each ear.
• Canal caps are like a combination of earplugs and ear muffs, with a connector holding plugs that fit into the ear canal (or cap the outside of it); these are good for short, intermittent exposures but do not work well with noises over 95 dBA.

Earplugs can be self forming and expand to fit the ear canal, while others are pre-formed or molded (fitted for your specific ear by a professional). Some earplugs are intended for one time use; dispose of these when done.

Earmuffs can be made to fit typically by adjusting the connecting band.

Canal caps are one size fits all. Depending on the type, the connector can be worn over or behind the head, or under the chin.

In some situations, you can increase hearing protection by wearing earplugs or canal caps under ear muffs. Make sure you wear hearing protection properly. Follow all relevant directions. Keep all hearing protection clean, and if it cannot be cleaned get a replacement.

A separate course is available through Compliance Training Online®, covering occupational noise and hearing protection.

To learn more about PPE visit our Personal Protective Equipment Online Training web page.