Earplugs and Earmuffs

Earplugs and earmuffs can offer some protection against noise damage by reducing the overall intensity in decibels (dB) of the sound. There are a number of alternative noise protection devices available and they are often described by the amount of attenuation or reduction in noise level that they provide. In general, earplugs/muffs tend to reduce the sound level by between 15 to 30dB, but this can vary depending on the type of protection, how well they fit the individual and how well they are maintained.

Generic earplugs

Generic ear plugs are available over-the-counter from hardware stores, sporting stores and some chemists. They tend to come in one size or a limited variety of sizes. They are commonly made from soft expandable foam or soft plastic. These plugs tend to vary greatly in the actual amount of attenuation depending on how well they fit and how deeply they are inserted into the canal. A poorly inserted plug may attenuate only 5 dB at a range of frequencies, whilst a plug that is optimally fit as per the manufacturer's instructions may attenuate up to 30dB. These plugs are often disposable and long-term use can reduce their efficacy.

Custom earplugs

Custom ear plugs are specifically made to fit the ear canal of the individual. They are more likely to provide a standard amount of attenuation, as they mould more closely to the ear resulting in limited opportunity for sound to penetrate. Custom earplugs are generally made from long-lasting materials and are not disposable. They can be obtained from audiologists and other hearing care professionals. They generally offer a level of attenuation from 10-30dB.

Musicians earplugs

Earplugs can affect the pitch and quality of the sound as it travels to the ear. Musicians earplugs are a type of custom earplug specifically designed so that the sound heard through the earplugs is the same as the original only quieter. They generally offer a level of attenuation from 5-30dB, and often the user is able to vary the level of attenuation by changing the filter provided in the plug.

Earmuffs
Earmuffs are available over-the-counter from hardware stores and gun supply stores. They come in a variety of sizes, shapes and attenuation level. They generally offer a level of attenuation from 15-30dB. Earmuffs that simply block noise because they contain sound protective materials (minus any additional features) are often referred to as "passive" earmuffs. As with generic earplugs, the attenuation level or earmuffs can be reduced if they are incorrectly fit.

Electronic earmuffs
Electronic earmuffs allow for noise attenuation but also have a power source which can be used to enhance weak sounds, such as the voice of a colleague or instructor. Alternatively, electronic earphones may include an FM radio player for recreational use. These headphones often include an impulse filter which assists in the reduction or impulse sounds such as gunfire.

Earplugs and earmuffs
Simultaneous use of earplugs and muffs usually adds 10 to 15dB more protection than either used alone and combined use should be considered when noise exceeds 105 dB.