As we see around us, Noise pollution is increasing day by day. It is the biggest problem when we come to metro cities. Mainly used in Industrial areas or factories with a lot of noises that is above the tolerable levels, in that places where hearing protection is a must. It is required to wear in a workplace or on a side job where you have to hear noise 8-9 hours daily otherwise you may reduce your hearing capability.
Hearing protection means the types of equipment used to prevent noise that may cause hearing loss. These devices are helpful to minimize the noise energy entering and causing harm inside the ear. Swimmers and deep sea divers also used ear plugs to prevent water entry inside the ear and for an ear infection. Using earplug or ear muffs, it may also be helpful for you to keep better studying. Students who might get distracted easily, helpful for them. Your concentration power is getting high.
People must use a hearing protector at that places where the noise level exceeds 85 decibels or DBA. It may reduce the noise level so you can protect your ear from damage. It is also important while choosing and wearing the right ear protector plugs that fit your ear without any harm.
Types of hearing protector:
There are basically two types of hearing protectors that people are using.
- Earmuffs
- Earplugs
- Earmuffs: It is also known as ear defenders, usually made of Plastic materials and sponge. The shape of this ear plug is just like a cup that is fitted over the individual’s ears.
- Earplugs: An ear-plug is equipment that is inserted into an individual’s ear canal to protect them from exposure to loud noises. Most of the earplugs are made of soft plastics or foam.
Advantages and Disadvantages of hearing protection devices:
Every electronics equipment we are using has its own advantages and disadvantages both. Firstly we should go through the advantages.
Advantages of Ear-plugs:
- It is of small size and light weighted.
- Easily carry anywhere.
- Can be also used in the hot environment.
- Can be easily used with other safety devices.
- Cost-effective, anyone can buy.
- Comfortable to use for a longer time.
Disadvantages of Ear-plugs:
- Sometimes it may difficult to insert or remove. (depends on individual ear canals)
- Might irritate or itching your ear canal.
- Insert in a proper way otherwise, it may reduce the noise reduction rating value.
Advantages of Ear-muffs:
- Size never be a problem. Designed to fit every ear.
- Usable for a longer period of time.
- Can be protected more at higher frequencies than ear-plugs.
- No irritation or itching problems comes inside your inner ear.
Disadvantages of Ear-muffs:
- Can be not convenient to use sometimes with other personal protective equipment.
- Expensive to purchase.
- May fit tight or irritate on your head section.
- Feel uncomfortable to wear in a hot weather.
How do I choose my hearing protectors?
The choice of hearing protector devices depends on individual requirement and one’s personal uses. What type of your working environment and which suits you fit, you can take. The choice depends on a number of factors like level of noise where you are, your comfortability, suitable for both workers and their environment.
If the noise occurring at irregular interval then ear-muffs are more useful to use as it may convenient to insert or remove as we compared to earplug.
Conclusion:
It is not only necessary but its compulsory to wear hearing protection devices when you are at workplaces mostly in On-site areas or factories where hearing issues are the most common one. You should also use when you are on a road or might be stuck in traffic. It may not only affects your professional life but also your social and personal life. If you are more conscious about your ear, then follow the above protection tips and prevents your ear from damaging. By using such types of equipment's, you can help to prevent hearing loss and be happier and healthier in all areas of your life.