Cover your ears

Jun 30, 2008 12:46 PM, By Sarah Day

Hearing protectors for farm noise limit risk of hearing loss

Know your options
Four basic types of hearing protection are available: formable earplugs, custom or premolded earplugs, canal caps and earmuffs. All will vary in their level of protection and thus have a different noise reduction rating (NRR), which can range anywhere from 4 to 33. The rating indicates the number of decibels the device reduces.

Kirkhorn says formable earplugs, the cheapest option, can work fine in many cases. But custom-molded plugs are generally more comfortable and thus are more likely to be worn. Kirkhorn likes corded earplugs because they are easy to slip on and off and can be conveniently kept around your neck. Under extreme noise conditions, double protection may be warranted. For example, earplugs can be worn under muffs.

A compendium of hearing protector devices can be found on the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health Web site. Choose devices that are comfortable and rated high enough to provide for the protection you need for farm-related tasks.

Here are descriptions of the types of hearing protection and a sampling of the manufacturers making each type.

Formable earplugs. The cheapest option is disposable foam plugs, which run about $0.20/pair according to the E.A.R Inc. Web site. They come in different sizes that conform to the ear canal. Women should look for smaller sizes.

To use the earplugs, you roll them into a thin cylinder and pull your ear back to straighten the ear canal. Insert the plug far enough to be useful and comfortable. You should wash your hands before inserting the plugs. You should not reuse an earplug after removing it because dirt can gather on the tip and be forced into the ear canal.

Moldex Goin’ Green Earplugs are made of soft, lightweight foam featuring easy roll-down insertion and an NRR of 33. Suggested retail price is $26.69 for 100 corded or 200 uncorded pairs and a dispenser. Contact Northern Safety Co., Dept. FIN, Box 4250, Utica, NY 13504, 800/631-1246.

Premolded earplugs. Made of silicone, plastic or rubber, these plugs are premolded in a variety of sizes to fit your ear. Some manufacturers offer custom molding. The plugs can be reused but must be washed and stored in a clean, dry container. Attached cords help prevent the plugs from being lost.

Howard Leight Smart Fit Detectable is a multiple-use premolded earplug on cords featuring an NRR of 25. It is made of conforming material technology that adapts to the shape of your ear canal for a personalized fit. It expands after removal. Suggested retail price is $61.80 for a box of 100. Contact US Safety and Supply Co., Dept. FIN, 167 Mason Way, Unit A3, City of Industry, CA 91746, 800/310-7233.

Canal caps. Earplugs on a plastic or metal band placed over or around the head are called canal caps. The tips can be made of formable or premolded material. This type of plug is easy to put on, take off and carry with you. However, because it covers only the ear canal, it does not protect as well as earplugs or earmuffs and is not recommended for extended use, according to the Hearing Conservation Program. Look for models with tips that look like their own separate earplug and that adequately block noise. The band should adjust comfortably to your head.