Earplugs: What are the 4 most popular uses for earplugs?
The trusty earplug has been around for a long time. And in a noisy world, they can really come in handy.
The standard earplug design was patented in 1884. The popular disposable earplug was patented in 1914. Their early development was driven by the need to protect the hearing of military personnel in the air force during World War II.
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Earplugs can help prevent hearing loss
The world is a noisy place.
According to the National Acoustics Laboratory, it doesn’t take long for the damage to occur.
Source of the noise | Decibel level | How long can you listen before damage is done? |
A jet taking off | 130 | 0 minutes |
Ambulance siren | 109 | 2 minutes |
A rock/pop concert | 103 | 7.5 minutes |
Riding a bike | 97 | 30 minutes |
Using an electric drill | 94 | 1 hour |
Earplugs are a simple way of reducing the volume of sound and protecting your ears from damage. They can help prevent both temporary and permanent hearing loss and tinnitus. They come in different shapes and sizes, depending on how you want to use them and what feels most comfortable.
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Earplugs block out excessive noise at work
Do you work in a noisy environment? Many Australians do.
Noise-induced hearing loss is a big problem in some Australian workplaces. It’s caused by either a single instance of extreme noise or from prolonged exposure to noise.
More men are affected than women because they often work with loud machinery. Even though it’s mandatory for employers to ensure their workers are protected, some people are still reluctant to use protection.
Musicians often suffer from hearing loss. Other industries where a noise-induced hearing loss is common include agriculture, manufacturing and construction.
Noise reduction earplugs can be very effective in protecting workers from noise at work.
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Earplugs for swimmers
Are you a regular swimmer and want to stop water from getting into your ears?
Earplugs are a great way to keep your ears dry. They can also help prevent a painful and uncomfortable condition called ‘swimmer’s ear’. Swimmer’s ear is an inflammation or infection of the outer ear canal, usually caused by bacteria. It can be treated with medicated drops, but prevention is usually better than cure.
Hearing care clinicians (like Smart Hearing Solutions) can organise custom-made swimmer’s earplugs to snugly fit into your ears and keep the water out.
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Earplugs to block out your partner’s snoring
If your partner snores, it’s likely you’re not getting a good night’s sleep. An interrupted or low quality sleep can have a serious impact on your health.
Snore Australia suggests it’s a good idea to explore the reasons why your partner is snoring. In the meantime, wearing earplugs can be a simple way of keeping the peace and getting the sleep you need.
Do you need to earplugs?
If you’re interested in a pair of custom-made noise-cancelling earplugs, swimmer’s earplugs or musician’s earplugs, please contact us via our website or give us a call on 1300 017 732.
We’re also offering a free hearing test when you come in.