Ear Plugs, Ear Defenders and Ear Filters

Protect Your Hearing

Looking after your hearing is something we all need to do better; noise pollution is increasing all the time. It is impossible (and unhealthy) to avoid activities because of loud noises. Life is about balance in every way. However look after your ears – you will only ever get two of them!

If you are employed in a noisy environment where the sound output is 85dB(A) your employer is legally obliged to offer you hearing protection. If the noise output is 90 dB(A) or higher it is compulsory for your employer to not only offer you effective hearing protection but to ensure that it is worn.

When should I wear ear plugs?

If you are exposed to excessively noisy environments (80 dB or more), you should wear hearing protectors. You should also wear them when you are using power tools, noisy yard equipment, or firearms. The table below shows how easy it is to exceed maximum exposure levels.

Noise Level Examples (Estimates)

• 85dB (Busy traffic): Max exposure 8 hours
• 91dB (Pub): Max exposure 2 hours
• 100dB (Factory): Max exposure 15 minutes
• 106dB (Nightclub): Max exposure 4 minutes
• 115dB (Jackhammer): Max exposure 30 seconds
• 140dB (Gunshot): No unprotected exposure recommended

Tips for Clubbers & Musicians

• Don’t stand near to loudspeakers.
• Give your ears regular breaks away from the source of the music.
• Wear hearing protection the whole time you are in the club.
• Consider using Quies Foam Earplugs, a soft and effective solution to protect your ears without compromising comfort.
• Limit your visits to club venues.
• If you're a musician, wear hearing protection even during rehearsals.