Extended noise can damage your hearing - even short spurts of sound over ninety decibels can have an impact.
The following information should be used as a guide to determining dangerous noise exposure levels.
Noise Level Activity
- 150 dB Most Firearms
- 140 dB Jet Engine at Takeoff
- 130 dB Jackhammer
- 120 dB Ambulance Siren, Amplified Rock and Roll Band
- 115 dB Sandblasting
- 110 dB Woodworking, Motorbike
- 100 dB Pneumatic Drill, Chainsaw
- 90 dB Lawn mower, Shop Tools
- 80 dB Town Traffic, Loud Music
- 75 dB Kitchen Appliances
- 70 dB Noisy and Crowded Restaurant
- 65 dB Conversational Speech
Permanent deafness can occur in as little as 15 minutes with exposure to certain sounds and nearly instantly with unprotected exposure to sounds generated from firearms and certain power tools or driving a convertible. If your hearing is at the mercy of any sounds above 90 decibels, you need to take immediate action to stop permanent hearing damage.
The company Starkey supplies a selection of hearing protection kits for different professions and sports.
They have a selection of six types of earplugs:
1. Solid Earplugs
Custom fit Solid Earplugs provide outstanding noise protection for a spread of recreational and occupational environments. Solid earplugs are offered corded, which can be placed over wearer's neck while not in use, or with a removal 'L' formed handle.
2. High Frequency Noise Filter
Recognized as superior auditory protection devices for a selection of activities. An acoustic filter that adjusts all incoming sound to suitable speech levels. While most hearing protection seals off the ear, effectively obstructing any sound from entering, the High Frequency Noise Filter, or often referred to as the Hocks Noise Braker, lets air and sound thru in a safe, effective way. As a result, the wearer can communicate freely and remain privy to the surrounding environment.
3. Sonic Valve
Provides cosy protection for loud environments. Takes the 'sting' out of gun blast noises and helps reduce 'noise hangover' from loud music. Unlike earmuffs or solid earplugs, the Sonic Valve's open fit decreases high level noises while enabling you to hear the delicate sounds of a talk. Law Enforcement officers, Pilots, Convertible Drivers, and economic workers alike use the Sonic Valve to protect their inner ears from long-lived damage.
4. Musicians Earplugs
For a musician, hearing is not just a way of communication; it's a way of life. Yet incessant exposure to high sound levels can affect a musician's ability to make critical sonic adjustments during a performance. Musicians Earplugs attenuate across all frequencies rather than just low and mid range frequencies, making music more clear and natural sounding. Available with 9 dB, 15 dB and 25 dB filters, depending on use.
5. Floatable Swimmer Earplug
Swimmers of every age and abilities can experience sensitivity to water in the ear. Custom made water-resistant swim plugs offer superior protection and comfort so you can enjoy the activities you enjoy. Floatable Swimmers Plugs are made of super soft hydrophobic silicone material that is available in a variety of colours and can even be made to change color or glow in the dark.
6. Sleeping Earplug
A complement to an ideal night's rest, the Sleeping Earplug is soft to provide a comfortable sleep while effortlessly diffusing background noise. Available in different styles including completely-in-the canal (CIC) and in-the-canal (ITC). Also includes a pull string for easy removal.
Hearing loss could be a direct effect of many occupations, recreational pursuits and general exposure to loud environmental. From specialty custom earplugs to musicians sound attenuators, Listen and Hear protection and enhancement products are the first step in an effective hearing conservation program.
