If you want to know exactly how much noise reduction you are getting, you can have the device “fit-tested” by a hearing professional. It is best to choose a hearing protector that is comfortable and convenient, and that you are willing to wear consistently when exposed to noise. A noise reduction rating is a “best case” rating measured in a laboratory the actual sound reduction provided by the protector may be much less.

Most hearing protection devices have ratings that range from 0 dB to 35 dB. Noise reduction ratings are measured in decibels (dB). reduce the manufacturer’s noise reduction rating by 70% for all other earplugs.įor more information, see NIOSH’s technical review manual.reduce the manufacturer’s noise reduction rating by half (50%) for foam earplugs, and.reduce the manufacturer’s noise reduction rating by 25% for earmuffs,.The actual sound reduction may be lower than the number listed for the device even when worn correctly. The noise reduction rating is usually labeled on the device container (it may say “NRR”) and it indicates the amount of potential protection the device provides. Hearing protection devices come with different noise reduction ratings. Hearing protection that does not fit properly will not protect your hearing.

Hearing protection devices reduce the level of sound entering your ear. When you can’t avoid loud noise, use hearing protection. The best way to protect your hearing from noise is to avoid noisy activities. And keep children away from high noise levels, such as from very loud toys. Also try to avoid your body touching the source of the noise (i.e., vibration).įor children and infants, also use the same precautions specified above. For more information about hearing loss in children, visitĭuring pregnancy, use the same precautions specified above for at home and public events.

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