Howard Leight® QB2 Ear Plugs 24dB

The National Health Service (NHS) estimates that over 10 million people in the UK suffer some degree of hearing impairment. This means that one in every six people is having hearing problems. Also, a large percentage of that 10 million is actually workers for whom constant exposure to excessive noise is part of the job.

Although it is the employer's responsibility to ensure that workers are not exposed to harm, effective hearing protection still depends on the employees. Below are some best practices when it comes to hearing protection:

Hearing protectors, no matter how good, are pointless if not worn when needed. Employees should always make it a point to wear the provided hearing protectors before entering areas with high-noise levels.
Check if the protector fits properly; if it doesn't, ask for another one. Check also for damages and do not assume that a damaged protector will still work properly. You should also see if your hearing protection device lends enough protection to lower excessive noise to a safe level.
Clean reusable hearing protectors regularly, earplugs in particular. Compressible earplugs should stay soft and pliable.
If exposure to high noise levels is unavoidable, take a break once in a while. Not only does it break your exposure to excessive noise, it also gives you a chance to rest your ears from wearing ear muffs or plugs.
Don't rely on music players. Some workers tend to drown the noise with music. However, this can prove more hazardous since doing so does not cancel out the noise or reduce it, and only adds up to it.

If you suddenly experience hearing difficulties, have it checked by a doctor. Hearing loss often results from negligence and disregarding symptoms. Remember that preventing hearing impairment is much easier than dealing with it.