Hearing is one of our fundamental senses and essential for most forms of communication. Hearing loss can affect nearly every aspect of life, from work and school performance to social interactions and mental health. Therefore, maintaining your hearing with custom hearing protection is crucial. That’s why we put together this guide breaking down how you can keep your hearing protected.
What are Hearing Protectors?
While there are many causes of hearing loss, exposure to loud noise is one of the most preventable. According to the Hearing Loss Association of America, 22 million Americans are exposed to hazardous noise levels in the workplace, something that could be prevented with proper hearing protection.
Hearing protectors, like earplugs, can reduce or eliminate exposure to loud noise from shooting, concerts, hunting or other industrial settings, while preserving the integrity of sound (when necessary). When used properly, hearing protection can be very effective in preventing noise-induced hearing loss.
Why is it Important to Protect Your Hearing?
Aside from the risk of hearing loss, exposure to loud noise can also lead to tinnitus, a ringing, buzzing or roaring in the ears that can be both annoying and debilitating. Tinnitus can interfere with sleep, work performance and concentration, and can cause feelings of anxiety, depression and irritability.
In addition to the physical and mental health risks, hearing loss can also have a profound effect on social interactions and quality of life. People with hearing loss often find it difficult to follow conversations, participate in group activities and enjoy leisure pursuits like going to the movies or attending concerts.
How Loud is Too Loud?
Sound is measured in decibels (dB). For context, normal conversation is around 60 dB, while the sound of a motorcycle engine running is around 95 dB.
According to the CDC, "noise above 70 dB over a prolonged period may start to damage your hearing. Loud noise above 120 dB can cause immediate harm to your ears."
Unique Features of Custom Hearing Protection
Custom hearing protection is made to fit the specific contours of your ears, providing a snug, comfortable fit that ensures maximum noise reduction. Additionally, unlike off-the-shelf earplugs or earmuffs, custom hearing protection is designed to work with your individual anatomy to provide the best possible fit and protection.
Custom hearing protection is also more durable and long-lasting than many store-bought options, making it a wise investment for anyone who is regularly exposed to loud noise.
Finally, custom hearing protection can be equipped with a variety of features to suit your specific needs. For example, musicians or those who work in sound production may need earplugs that allow them to hear clearly while still protecting their hearing.
Similarly, people who enjoy shooting or hunting can get custom earplugs with filters that block out loud noises but still allow them to hear softer sounds like conversations or animal movements.
Protect Your Hearing with Custom Hearing Protection from OAT
At OAT, we offer a variety of custom hearing solutions to protect your ears while preserving the integrity of sound. Our custom-made earpieces are designed based on the exact contour of your ears to ensure they fit just right and provide maximum noise reduction.
