Hearing Protection
Choosing Hearing Protection for Loud Tools
Hearing protection in this collection runs from basic earplugs to Bluetooth earbuds and earmuffs. Milwaukee offers foam, flanged, banded, and corded reusable earplugs, BOLT earmuffs rated 24dB and 26dB, and REDLITHIUM USB Bluetooth jobsite ear buds. ISOtunes adds PRO, Free, and Sport Bluetooth earbuds plus AIR DEFENDER AM/FM earmuffs and LINK Aware earmuffs with ambient listening. Festool offers GHS 25 I wireless earbuds and replacement tips, and Klein offers SMART SENSE situational awareness earbuds.
What to Look For
- Noise reduction rating. Check the dB rating in each title, such as 32dB earplugs or 24dB and 26dB earmuffs.
- Plugs or muffs. Earplugs pack small and fit under respirators and helmets. Earmuffs go on and off quickly over gloves.
- Audio and awareness. Bluetooth models stream music and calls, and ambient listening models let in nearby voices.
- Spare tips. Earbuds need a good seal, so stock replacement tips in the right size.
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Hearing Protection FAQ
Earplugs or earmuffs?
Earplugs suit long stretches of steady noise and fit under other gear. Earmuffs are easier when you step in and out of loud areas all day. Many users keep both and double up for very loud tools.
Do Bluetooth earbuds protect my hearing?
The earbuds in this collection are sold as hearing protection, so they seal the ear like a plug. Protection depends on a good fit, so use the right tip size. Some models also cap volume, such as the 79dB limit on the ISOtunes PRO 2.0.