Wearing Ear Plugs Properly
Remember the saying, You don't know what you've got 'til it's gone? This is really the case with your hearing. Exposure to loud noise and failure to wear hearing protection can make you lose your hearing before you know it. Wearing hearing protection at work is required but it should also be worn at home doing such activities as vacuuming, mowing the lawn, or shooting.
This loss occurs so gradually, you may not realize it's happening. You may not be aware until it's too late. Physiologically, loud noise severely damages the inner ear. The damaging potential of noise depends on the length of exposure and the sound pressure level.
Although you may have the earplugs in place, are they really “in”? Make sure you’re getting the full protection from your ear plugs by rolling the plug up between your fingers, pulling back your ear and inserting them completely in the ear canal as intended.
How to Wear
To get the best protection from your soft foam earplugs, remember to roll, pull, and hold when putting them in. Use clean hands to
keep from getting dirt and germs into your ears!
1. Roll the earplug up into a small, thin "snake" with your fingers. You can use one or both hands.
2. Pull the top of your ear up and back with your opposite hand to straighten out your ear canal. The rolled-up earplug should slide right in.
3. Hold the earplug in with your finger. Count to 20 or 30 out loud while waiting for the plug to expand and fill the ear canal. Your voice will sound muffled when the plug has made a good seal.
Check the fit when you're all done. Most of the foam body of the earplug should
be within the ear canal. Try cupping your hands tightly over your ears. If sounds
are much more muffled with your hands in place, the earplug may not be sealing
properly. Take the earplug out and try again.