Best custom ear plugs for long factory shifts (and what to avoid)
With thousands of options of hearing protection out there, it’s hard to know where to start when choosing what’s appropriate for your employees. And when the employees are working for extended periods of time, choosing comfortable and effective hearing protection becomes even more complicated.
Choosing ear plugs: what to avoid
If employees are exposed to noise for long periods of time, they should have hearing protection that is comfortable to wear all shift long. Otherwise, they won’t wear them.
Uncomfortable universal fit hearing protection
Universal/standard fit hearing protection is often found to be uncomfortable over time. Every ear is unique, so the same level of protection will not be equally realized by everyone using the same product, just because they have taken it from the package and put it in their ear.
Discomfort is one of the main reasons employees do not wear hearing protection when it’s needed. Some may wear them halfway in, but that won’t provide nearly enough protection.
Silicone custom ear plugs
Not all custom ear plugs were created equal, either. Most custom fit products are made of silicone, a soft material. Contrary to what’s expected, soft material leads to more comfort issues than a hard material. Silicone ear plugs must be made slightly oversize to make up for the material’s compressibility. Over a shift, the pressure from the earplug becomes uncomfortable for some wearers.
Silicone ear plugs also have issues with hygiene and longevity. Because silicone is an absorbent material, wax and other contaminants can work their way into the earplug. Not only does this create a hygiene issue, but it also means silicone doesn’t last very long and often becomes more uncomfortable.
An NRR that’s too high
Another reason employee report not wearing hearing protection consistently is because they feel isolated, can’t communicate with colleagues, and can’t hear important warning signals. This is often due to an NRR (Noise Reduction Rating) that’s too high.
An appropriate NRR should both protect your employees, and allow them to communicate safely.
Fit testing: what’s the REAL attenuation of your hearing protection?
Anadyne’s custom ear plugs – the best option for factory workers
Communication
The best part about our hearing protection isn’t what they’re made of, it’s what they’re made for. Communicate safely in noise. Hear colleagues, warning signs, and even your radio or phone. No need to pull them out every time someone talks to you.
Comfort
Our custom ear plugs are designed to be the most option for industrial employees. Made from hard, non-porous material and molded to the shape of the ear, their low profile design makes them comfortable to wear all shift long.
Read more: is custom hearing protection worth it for your team?
