Choices for Hearing Protection
Choices for Hearing Protection
Earplugs and earmuffs that look like wireless headphones, have a noise reduction rating, or NRR. The NRR tells you how many decibels your protection will block. Check the NRR and decide what protection is right for you. Earplugs and earmuffs can be worn together to block even more noise.
Earplugs
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Made of dense foam, flexible rubber, or silicone and in different shapes
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May be custom made
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May come joined by cord to prevent loss
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Lightweight, comfortable, easy to fit
Fitting earplugs
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Wash hands
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Reach over head and pull ear up and back
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Insert plug into ear
Care of earplugs
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Wash in soap and water
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Discard if dirty
Earmuffs
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Cushions filled with foam or liquid
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Difficult to wear with glasses or over hair that covers ears
Fitting earmuffs
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Push hair away from ears
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Place cushions over ears
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Press cushions to create a seal around ears
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Wear headband over top of head, not around neck
Care of earmuffs
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Wipe cushions clean with damp cloth and soap
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Don't modify headband or cushions
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Replace cushions if torn, replace headband if bent
Updated:
March 15, 2019
Reviewed By:
Ashutosh Kacker MD