How to Choose the Right Earplugs for the Workplace

Do you work in a noisy environment? Whether it's indoors or outdoors, loud noise is common in the workplace. Millions of workers are exposed to loud noise each year. And while it may sound like nothing more than a nuisance, loud noise is a health hazard. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says that hearing loss is the third-most common physical ailment in the United States.

Exposure to loud noise, of course, can cause hearing loss. There are earplugs available, however, that can protect you from hearing loss associated with loud noise. Earplugs work by dampening sound. If you're thinking about using them, you'll need to choose the right type of earplugs. Below are several tips on how to choose the right earplugs for the workplace. 

Reusable vs Disposable

Some earplugs are reusable, whereas others are disable. Reusable earplugs are designed for multiple uses. You can wear them day after day. Disposable earplugs, on the other hand, are designed for a single use. After wearing them, you'll have to discard them and replace them with a new pair of earplugs. You can choose either reusable or disposable earplugs for the workplace.

Consider Corded

Earplugs are available in corded and uncorded styles. Uncorded earplugs consist of two separate pieces. Corded earplugs consist of the same two pieces, but they are connected together by a cord.

Many workers prefer corded earplugs over uncorded earplugs. Because they are held together by a cord, corded earplugs are more secure. You don't have to worry about them falling out of your ears and getting lost. Even if one of the plugs happens to fall out of your ear, the cord will keep it around your neck.

Comfortable Material

You should choose earplugs made of a comfortable material. Not all earplugs are made of the same material. You can find earplugs in different materials.

Foam is a common material from which earplugs are made. Foam earplugs are soft, comfortable and long-lasting. You can also find earplugs made of rubber and similar polymer materials.

Buy in Bulk

When shopping for earplugs to use in the workplace, you may want to buy them in bulk. Rather than buying just one or two pairs, for instance, you may want to buy 100 pairs of earplugs. Buying in bulk will save you money. At the same, most workers will agree that buying earplugs in bulk is convenient. With 100 pairs, you can rest assured knowing that you have an adequate supply of earplugs ready for the workplace.