Whether you’re going to concerts, at work, or doing some yard work, hearing protection is essential in keeping your ears safe against damaging noise levels. However, you could be left exposed to potential risks if any one of several potential factors interferes with your hearing protection’s effectiveness. Understanding these issues can help you address them proactively and maximize the benefits of your protective gear.
Common reasons why hearing protection fails
Even when you follow best practices, unexpected challenges can happen. You steer clear of overly loud situations as much as possible, use earplugs at concerts, and diligently use earmuffs at work. Yet, some variables can still disrupt your hearing protection’s effectiveness. Luckily, by recognizing these common pitfalls, you can make informed adjustments to ensure your hearing is always well-protected.
1. Choosing the wrong hearing protection for the circumstance
The effectiveness of hearing protection can be decreased by choosing the wrong type for the given situation.
There are generally two primary categories of hearing protection:
- Earmuffs: Larger devices that go over the whole ear, similar to headphones.
- Earplugs: Little, flexible inserts that seat snugly inside the ear canal.
There is an ideal type for each situation:
- Locations with a continual noise threshold, like a factory floor or the cabin of an airliner, are the perfect times to utilize earplugs.
- In settings like a construction site where noise is periodic and you might need to regularly remove your hearing protection, earmuffs are the better choice.
Earmuffs are easier to deal with when there is a need to regularly put on and remove your hearing protection. Disposable earplugs, in contrast, can leave you susceptible to hearing damage because they can be easily misplaced. The first step towards successfully protecting your hearing is to select the correct type of hearing protection.
2. Personal anatomy effects fit and effectiveness
Some devices will fit better than others based on the size and shape of the individual’s ears. An average sized ear is what basic earplugs and earmuffs are designed for, but a more personalized solution might be needed for your ear’s anatomy.
- Larger ear structures: Earmuffs might be uncomfortable if your ears are larger than average causing gaps in the seal.
- Smaller ear canals: If you have narrow ear canals, standard-sized earplugs might not create an effective seal, reducing their noise-blocking capabilities.
If your hearing protection isn’t fitting properly, you may become frustrated and decide to quit using them altogether which can endanger your hearing. Consider opting for custom-fitted earplugs or professionally fitted earmuffs if you spend a great deal of time in loud settings. Choosing to go with a more customized approach will offer you greater comfort and effectiveness, keeping your hearing safe in any situation.
3. Failing to maintain or replace ear protection
In order to remain effective, hearing protection devices need to be correctly maintained just like any other devices do. Wear and tear, improper cleaning, and neglecting replacement schedules can all compromise their ability to protect your ears.
Here’s how to maintain your hearing protection:
- Replace Cushions: Over time, earmuff cushions can lose their pliability. In order to maintain a proper seal, replace the cushions when necessary.
- Clean Properly: Earplugs and earmuffs come into contact with earwax and other debris, which can accumulate over time. In order to safely and effectively clean your earplugs or earmuffs, consult the manufacturer-recommended cleaning guidelines.
- Inspect for Damage: Regularly check the elastic band on earmuffs. A slack or stretched band can decrease their snug fit, lowering their noise-blocking capacity.
Disregarding these basic maintenance duties can render your hearing protection less effective or even useless. Regular upkeep is essential to extend their lifespan and ensure consistent performance.
What is the role of a hearing specialist?
Make an appointment with us for an assessment if you think that your ear protection might not be getting the job done. We can examine your current devices, suggest alternatives, and even offer custom solutions tailored to your specific needs.
Keeping your hearing safe is a commitment that lasts a lifetime and it’s essential that you do it with the proper tools. You can safeguard and preserve your hearing for many years by addressing these common challenges.
