Earplug and Noise Reduction Ratings Explained

The noise reduction rating of earplugs is an indication of how much noise they can block when used alone. This ranking is exclusive to hearing protection devices like earplugs and earmuffs, and it gives consumers a valuable resource for making informed decisions when buying for these items. If you need to buy earplugs, make sure you understand noise reduction ratings (NRR) as thoroughly as possible to ensure you’re making the right choice. Read on to find out more.

What Is Noise Reduction Rating?

The maximum NRR for earplugs is 33, and the maximum NRR for earmuffs is 31. These numbers indicate the degree to which each gadget can shield its wearer from ambient noise when used independently. When used together, earplugs and earmuffs can provide NRR 36 noise reduction. A variety of earplugs and earmuffs are produced by manufacturers to meet these standards. The NRR rating is used to compare the relative effectiveness of different types of noise reduction technology.

The higher the number of the NNR on any particular hearing protection device, the better it will protect your hearing when you use it.

Why Is Proper Fit Important?

Earmuffs and earplugs are the two most common types of protection designed to muffle ambient noise.

The ear is protected by earmuffs. Earmuffs that don’t fit properly don’t adequately cover the ear and don’t press firmly against the skin. Factors that affect whether or not a headset fits properly include the wearer’s head size and shape, the degree to which the headset is pulled over the head and ears and whether or not the wearer’s hair and spectacles prevent the headset from sealing tightly against the skin.

Inserting earplugs into the ear canal is a common method of noise reduction. Sealing the ear canal with the foam or silicone tip is essential for a comfortable fit. To get the most out of your purchase, be sure to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines. Earplugs typically come with a selection of tips to ensure a snug and comfortable fit for each user. Keep in mind that the earplugs NRR rating may change depending on the ear tips you wear.

Talk with your hearing instrument specialists (HIS) they will give you the best advice on how to use your earmuffs and other hearing devices and help you find the right fit.

How Does NRR Change the Decibels of Exposure?

The NRR rating of your hearing protection will determine how much noise you will still be exposed to while you wear it. Keep in mind, though, that the NRR is measured in decibels (dBs), and the hearing protector you’re using might not lower the surrounding decibel level by the precise number of decibels that its NRR says it will.

For example, if you’re at a rock event where the decibel level is 100, wearing earplugs with an NRR of 33 won’t cut your exposure to 67. Instead, you take the NRR value, remove seven, then divide by two to get the actual amount of decibel deduction applied.

Although you may not need to know this equation in all instances, it’s a useful piece of information that could come in handy if you want to be sure that you are choosing the right protection for the event or situation you find yourself in.

What Does Occupation Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) Consider Excessive Noise?

Noise levels in the workplace can be measured using a number of different kinds of testing equipment. Noise levels of 85 decibels or higher for eight hours or more are considered hazardous by OSHA. Employers have a legal obligation to supply workers with adequate hearing protection in this setting. Each hearing protection equipment must pass the NRR test levels, and the OSHA Action Level is based on the decibel level of the environment.

It is recommended that a certified, effective hearing preservation program be put in place if noise levels in the workplace are over the thresholds stated in the following chart.

Concerts, lawnmowers, guns, fireworks, tractors, headphones, drilling equipment, all-terrain vehicles, motorcycles, chainsaws, power tools and industrial equipment and machinery are just some examples of common situations with associated decibel levels that OSHA has defined as potentially harmful to your ears and hearing. If you work in an area where the noise level consistently exceeds 90dBs, you should consider purchasing and using hearing protection gear.

To learn more about hearing protection and noise reduction ratings, please contact Belcher Hearing Aid Service at (706) 407-4003.