Hearing Protection

Hearing protection is recommended for any noise levels above 85 dB. Prolonged exposure to sounds at or above this level can cause permanent hearing damage. Common sources of harmful noise include:

• 85 dB: Hair dryer, food blender
• 88 dB: Heavy traffic
• 90 dB: Lawn mowers, motorbikes
• 100 dB: Nightclubs 
• 110 dB: Chainsaws, music festivals
• 130 dB: Emergency sirens, jet engines

Using earplugs or ear defenders in noisy environments can help protect against hearing loss.

Custom-moulded ear plugs provide the most effective hearing protection. They are made from an impression of your ear canal, ensuring a perfect fit and superior noise-blocking capabilities compared to disposable or one-size-fits-all options.

The most affordable option we offer is £84, while our most commonly purchased custom plugs are £149. Customers who purchase the ear plugs directly through us do not need to pay the separate £30 fee for taking ear impressions. Despite being more expensive than disposable plugs, custom moulded ear plugs provide a tailored, personalised fit to your ear canals along with superior noise isolation. This makes them an excellent investment for reliable, comfortable hearing protection suited to your specific needs.

To properly insert ear plugs, follow these steps:

• Clean Hands: Ensure your hands are clean to avoid introducing dirt into your ears.
• Roll: If using foam ear plugs, roll them between your fingers to compress them into a thin, crease-free cylinder.
• Pull Ear: Reach over your head with the opposite hand and gently pull the top of your ear upwards and outwards to straighten the ear canal.
• Insert: Insert the compressed ear plug into your ear canal. If using pre-moulded ear plugs, simply push them into the ear canal.
• Hold: Hold the ear plug in place for a few seconds while it expands to fill the canal (for foam ear plugs).
• Check Fit: Ensure the ear plug is snug and comfortable, and that it significantly reduces surrounding noise.

Proper insertion is crucial for effective noise protection.

Ear plugs should be cleaned regularly. Avoid using harsh chemicals or submerging them completely. To clean ear plugs:

• Foam Ear Plugs: Dispose of them after use; they are generally not reusable.
• Silicone or Rubber Ear Plugs: Wash them with mild soap and warm water, then let them air dry completely before use.
• Custom Ear Plugs: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions, usually involving gentle washing with soap and water, and allow them to fully air dry before reinserting.

Regular cleaning prevents ear infections and maintains effectiveness.

Noise-cancelling headphones can help reduce exposure to loud sounds in noisy environments. However, they are not designed as dedicated hearing protection devices. It’s important to use them responsibly and not rely solely on them for hearing protection in extremely loud settings.

For optimal hearing safety in noisy environments, custom-moulded ear plugs are recommended.