Hearing protection is used to reduce the intensity or loudness of sound. Hearing protection includes off-the-shelf and custom-made earplugs and earmuffs. Cotton in the ears does not provide adequate protection from noise. It cannot block the ear canal effectively. Earplugs: Earplugs are placed into the ear canal so that they totally block the canal. They come in various pre-made shapes and sizes, or they can be custom made by taking an impression of the ear. Earplugs can reduce noise 15-30 dB depending on how they are made and fit. Earmuffs fit over the ears and reduce the amount of sound that enters the ears. Like earplugs, earmuffs can reduce noise levels by up to 30 dB depending on how they are made and fit.

How Loud Is Too Loud?

Knowing which noises can cause damage can help you preserve your hearing. Sounds louder than 80 decibels are considered potentially dangerous to hearing. The amount of noise and the length of time of exposure determine the amount of damage that occurs. Always wear ear plugs when you're involved in a loud activity.

Some Common Noises

• Rock concerts, Firecrackers — 140 decibels
• Snowmobile — 120 decibels
• Chainsaw — 110 decibels
• Wood shop — 100 decibels
• Lawnmower, motorcycle — 90 decibels
• City traffic noise — 80 decibels
• Normal conversation, — 60 decibels
• Refrigerator humming, — 40 decibels
• Whispered voice, — 20 decibels

What can happen?

At 110 decibels regular exposure of more than one minute risks permanent hearing loss. At 100 decibels no more than 15 minutes unprotected exposure is recommended. At 90 decibels prolonged exposure to any noise above this level can cause gradual hearing loss.