Image of a worker dressed in orange with a white hard hat and orange PS47 clip-on hearing protection. It is in front of a wall with stainless steel tanks and rotary valves. A link to our hearing protection is provided

Noise-induced hearing loss is one of the most common occupational diseases. Permanent damage can occur at noise levels as low as 85 dB (about as loud as a lawnmower). Therefore, hearing protection is required by law for working in noisy environments. European standards such as EN 352 regulate the requirements for hearing protection products to ensure that they are reliable and comfortable. But which hearing protection is suitable for your work environment? Here are the three main types:

 

1. Earmuffs - All-round protection

Earmuffs enclose the entire ear with a padded capsule and effectively reduce noise through its physical barrier. It is particularly suitable for work environments with permanently high noise levels, such as construction sites or in industry. Earmuffs must meet the requirements of EN 352-1 to be considered safe and effective.

Benefits:

  • Offers a high level of insulation and effectively protects against loud and continuous noise.
  • Comfortable and easy to put on, even for longer working hours.
  • Often adjustable to ensure an optimal fit.

Image of the PS43 HV Extreme earmuffs in black with red details and a link that leads to the article page.Image of the PS44 Top earmuffs in black with green details and a link that leads to the article page.

 

 

 

2. Clip-on earmuffs - perfect for working with a helmet

Clip-on earmuffs are a variant of earmuffs that have been specially developed for helmets. The earmuffs are attached directly to the helmet and are suitable for construction work, electrical work or other jobs where helmets are mandatory. Clip-on earmuffs also fall under EN 352-3, which ensures that these models offer the same level of protection as regular earmuffs.

Advantages:

  • Combines protection for the head and hearing without affecting the helmet function.
  • Easy to put on and take off as needed.
  • Space-saving and securely fixed, even when moving.

Image of the PW62 HV Extreme earmuffs Clip On in gray with orange details and a link that leads to the article page.Image of the PS47 Endurance HV earmuff in orange with black details and a link to the product page.

 

 

 

3. Earplugs - Flexible and discreet

Earplugs are inserted directly into the ear canal and are ideal for work environments with moderate noise or when freedom of movement is required. They are often made of soft foam, silicone or wax and can be reusable or single-use. EN 352-2 regulates the requirements for earplugs and ensures that they sufficiently attenuate the noise level while remaining comfortable.

Advantages:

  • Lightweight, compact and unobtrusive - ideal for mobile work.
  • Adaptable to different ear canals thanks to soft, malleable materials.
  • Well suited for changing noise levels as they are easy to transport.

Image of the EP10 Reusable TPR Ear Plugs in orange with a link to the product page.Image of the Bell Comfort PU foam earplugs with a link that leads to the article page.

The choice of the right hearing protection depends on the work environment and the requirements of the job. Earmuffs offer comprehensive protection, clip-on versions are perfect for helmet work, and plugs score points for their flexibility and lightness. Make sure that the hearing protection complies with European standards - this way you are always on the safe side. Because: healthy ears are priceless!

 

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