Ear Muffs
The U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requires that employers make hearing protection available to employees who are subjected to noise levels of 85 decibels or greater for an eight-hour period.
Ear muffs completely block sound from entering the ear canal. They are a convenient and comfortable option for users who frequently move in and out of noisy areas during the workday.
Choosing the Right Ear Muffs for Hearing Protection
Ear muffs are rated by hearing protection levels. When the work and decibel level has been determined, choose an appropriate ear muff based on its Noise Reduction Rating (NRR). The NRR indicates how well the device protects your hearing. Ear muffs with a high NRR are usually bulkier and have larger cups than those with a lower NRR.
Many models and styles are available, and most are made from plastic or a combination of metal and plastic. Headsets are available in three different styles: traditional (over-the-head) headband styles, neckband (worn behind the neck), and cap- or hard hat-mounted.
- Traditional ‒ Worn over the head; can sit around the neck when not in use
- Mounted ‒ Attach directly to the sides of a hard hat
- Neckband ‒ Similar to the traditional style with the support from around the neck; can be worn with head coverings
When ear muffs fit properly, the center of the ear canal aligns with the ear canal opening, and the ear cup cushions seal around the outer ear (pinna). The headband should be centered on the top of the head and create sufficient pressure to help hold the ear cups in place.