We recently sent out an email about hearing protection, and let’s just say… some of the responses were a little too real. Turns out, a lot of folks already have hearing loss—and they’re not shy about admitting it!
But it’s no laughing matter: hearing loss in the workplace, especially in construction, is incredibly common—and preventable.
The Stats Speak Volumes
Here’s what we’re dealing with:
- 14% of construction workers report difficulty hearing
- 7% suffer from tinnitus (ringing in the ears)
- A staggering 25% of noise-exposed construction workers have permanent hearing loss¹
That’s one in four workers whose hearing is affected long-term. Yikes.
Know Your Options: Types of Hearing Protection Devices (HPDs)
Different jobs and environments call for different types of hearing protection. Here’s a quick breakdown of the most common options:
Disposable Earplugs
The Classic Choice
- Most common HPD, with some of the highest NRRs available
- Comes in banded and unbanded versions
- Made mostly from polyurethane—though eco-friendly alternatives exist
- Metal-detectable versions available for food processing industries
- Requires proper training for insertion to be effective
Reusable Earplugs
Flexible and Sustainable
- Made from silicone, polyvinyl, or rubber-like materials
- Washable and long-lasting
- Typically offer a slightly lower NRR than disposables
- Easier to use with less training required
- Custom-molded options available for a personalized fit—and even custom NRRs
Banded Earplugs
On-and-Off Convenience
- Best for jobs where noise is intermittent
- Connected by a washable band for easy handling
- Offer lower NRR, but super handy for quick use
Earmuffs
For All-Around Protection
Passive Earmuffs
- No electronics—just solid noise blocking
- NRR typically 20–30 dB
- Great for intermittent use, with features like adjustable bands, padding, and compact folding
- Bulkier, but easy to fit and wear
Active Earmuffs
- Use microphones and built-in electronics to amplify safe sounds (like voices) and compress hazardous ones
- Perfect for environments where communication matters, but so does protection
- Allows the user to hear surroundings when safe, and be protected when it’s not
When “Too Much Protection” Becomes a Problem
Yes, it’s a thing. Overprotecting workers with unnecessarily high NRR hearing protection can actually introduce new hazards:
- Workers may not hear alarms or warnings
- Communication becomes difficult or impossible
- And if they can’t hear that well? They’re more likely to remove their protection, defeating the purpose entirely
Final Word
Hearing loss is one of those silent risks that sneaks up on workers—and once it’s gone, it doesn’t come back. The right hearing protection, combined with proper training and awareness, goes a long way in keeping your crew safe for the long haul.
So whether your team is rocking foam plugs or high-tech muffs, the key is making sure they’re using the right protection for the right job—and wearing it properly, every time.
To read more about hearing protection, visit our related blog here.
Are you a visual learner? Watch our webinar on Hearing Conservation HERE.
Browse our hearing protection products HERE.
