Ear plugs are devices designed to protect ears from wind, dirt, water and high noise levels. Workers in construction, manufacturing, airports and road maintenance wear these protective hearing devices to prevent hearing damage due to loud and continuous noise for prolonged periods of time. These safety devices must receive ratings as mandated by certain regulations. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) specifies that protective hearing devices such as ear plugs are necessary for noise levels above 90 decibels for workers in industries where this intensity of noise is present.

Some ear plug manufacturers fabricate these lightweight devices in formable, non-toxic foam, which are disposable. There are also pre-molded plugs, which are reusable and can be made of rubber, silicone or plastic. These products are available in different colors, designs and types like corded ear plugs. If you require protective hearing products for your business then there are some points you should review before buying these devices.

1. Go online to find ear plugs information before you make a product selection.

2. Search for an ear plugs provider with a variety of hearing protection products.

3. Keep your business well stocked by buying in bulk.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Use online resources to get correct ear plugs information

Manufacturers of protective hearing devices label these products with a Noise Reduction Rating (NRR) to provide information on the type of hearing protection possible for an intended use. At-risk workers in different industries need ear plugs that offer protection for noise levels at different ranges. Use resources that provide useful information on ear plug ratings, how to choose a product and noise level charts to select the correct product for an industrial use.

I recommend: The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) provides very good information on how to choose hearing protection devices, NRR calculations. Use the hearing protector device compendium to search for these products by manufacturers, NRR, product type, material or noise level. OSHA has useful charts that include a noise level chart and standards for occupational noise exposure; look through the appendices for very good information on this subject.

Select an ear plugs supplier with a good inventory of products

When you need disposable, corded or reusable ear plugs in different types of material, you should choose a one stop source distributor with an ear plugs list of quality products to meet all your business needs and also save you time and money in the process.

I recommend: Elvex carries a good array of disposable (foam) and reusable (polymer) ear plugs in standard and corded versions in various ratings. There are also other products like ear muffs. Good resources and product information are also available. Airgas provides an extensive catalog where you can search through an ear plugs directory of products. You can search by NRR, brand name, material, manufacturer and more. Safety Supply Illinois is another supplier of disposable and reusable plugs with a good inventory of different brand products.

Search for an ear plugs provider that offers great wholesale deals

For any business owner, having a good supply of products is essential to keep a business running smoothly. Buying in bulk sizes or finding great wholesale deals can be cost-effective and help you meet your customer needs or demands at all times.

I recommend: Magid Glove and Safety Manufacturing offers reusable and disposable products by brand names in various types and materials. DiscountSafetyGear.com also offers a good variety of name brand ear plugs products. You can order online from these suppliers that can also accommodate bulk orders at great prices.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  To provide a good fit, certain reusable ear plugs are available in small, medium or large. Wash these washable products in suitable detergents between uses to prevent ear infections.