How to Wear Foam Ear Plugs

Wearing ear plugs can protect your hearing. Noise above 85 decibels can cause damage to

your ears. One time exposure that is very loud can cause permanent hearing damage. One way to protect your ear from damage is to wear foam earplugs. Those who should wear hearing protection is anyone who is in an environment over 85 decibels, especially adults who work in a noisy environment. The proper way to wear foam earplugs is as follows:

To get the best protection from foam earplugs is to remember to roll, pull and hold when putting them in. Use clean hands to keep them from getting dirt and germs into your ears.

1. Roll the earplug 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 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 muffed when the plug has made a good seal.

Check the fit when you’re all done. Most of the foam 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.