Earplugs are a simple but effective device that can protect our hearing and help us to avoid long-term damage to our ears. They work by reducing the amount of sound that enters our ears, which is especially important in loud environments where prolonged exposure to noise can cause hearing damage anywhere there’s loud noise. No exception to this is industrial facilities.
In industrial facilities, the sound levels can often be loud because of the work involved, particularly those caused by heavy machinery. Naturally, prolonged exposure to such noise can result in hearing damage. As per the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) guidelines, employers must protect workers from excessive noise. The best way to do this is by providing earplugs, which is easy because they come in various configurations that suit anyone.
When employees in an industrial facility wear earplugs, the following benefits will be apparent:
#1 – Sound Protection
Custom earplugs are designed to fit the unique shape of an individual’s ear canal, ensuring maximum protection from hazardous noise. These earplugs can reduce noise levels by up to 28 decibels, depending on the manufacturer and the type of earplug used. In comparison, regular foam earplugs provide an average noise reduction of 20 decibels.
Custom earplugs are made from high-quality materials that offer superior sound protection. They can be designed to block out specific frequencies harmful to human hearing while allowing other frequencies to pass through. This means employees can still hear important sounds, such as alarms and warning signals, while protected from hazardous noise.
#2 – Employee Safety
Excessive noise levels can cause various health problems, including hearing loss, tinnitus, and stress. Employers can protect their employees from such health hazards by providing custom earplugs. This, in turn, can lead to improved employee morale, reduced absenteeism, and increased productivity.
Custom earplugs are particularly beneficial for employees who work in noisy environments regularly. For instance, construction workers, factory workers, and airport ground crew members are exposed to loud and prolonged noise. By wearing custom earplugs, these employees can protect their hearing and reduce their risk of developing hearing-related health problems.
#3 – Made from Different Materials
Earplugs are available in various materials, such as foam, silicone, and wax. Each material has different properties that suit specific situations and user preferences. Foam earplugs, for instance, are lightweight and disposable, making them an excellent choice for short-term use. Silicone earplugs, on the other hand, are more durable and can be moulded to fit the user’s ears precisely. As for wax earplugs, they provide a softer and more comfortable fit, ideal for sleeping or prolonged use.
#4 – Maximum Comfort
One of the main advantages of custom earplugs is their comfort level. Unlike regular earplugs, which can be uncomfortable for extended periods, custom earplugs are designed to fit snugly in the ear canal. This makes them comfortable to wear for long periods without causing discomfort or pain, which is beneficial if workers work beyond the standard 9 to 5.
Custom earplugs are made from soft, flexible materials that conform to the shape of the ear. This ensures a comfortable and secure fit without any pressure points or irritation. As a result, employees are more likely to wear their earplugs consistently, which enhances their safety and reduces their risk of hearing damage.
#5 – Cost Savings
Providing custom earplugs to employees can lead to significant cost savings for employers. Firstly, it reduces the risk of hearing loss claims, which can be expensive to settle. Secondly, it reduces the risk of absenteeism and lost productivity due to hearing-related health problems.
Custom earplugs are also cost-effective in the long run, as they are durable and can last several years. This means employers do not have to replace them frequently, reducing the overall hearing protection cost.
Conclusion
Custom earplugs offer numerous benefits to anyone working in industrial facilities, making them worthwhile investments. Even if earplugs yield high costs to let everyone have a pair, they will protect hearing and promote a safe working environment. With custom earplugs, you can look forward to a healthier and more productive workforce.
If you’re looking for custom-made earplugs, Custom Fit Earplugs has what you need! We offer various earplugs for different uses, such as sports, music, and comfort, all for affordable prices. Call us today at 0491 702 458 to schedule an appointment!