What are commonly used types of hearing protectors in the workplace?

Earplugs, earmuffs, and canal caps are commonly used types of hearing protectors in the workplace because they are specifically designed to reduce exposure to hazardous noise levels. These devices effectively attenuate sound, thereby helping to prevent hearing loss among workers in environments where noise exceeds safe levels.

Earplugs can be made from a variety of materials and are inserted into the ear canal to block out noise. They are portable, easy to use, and can be disposable or reusable, making them a convenient option. Earmuffs are worn over the entire ear and create a seal against the head, providing substantial noise reduction and comfort in high-noise environments. Canal caps, combining features of both earplugs and earmuffs, are designed to rest at the entrance of the ear canal and are ideal for intermittent use.

Other options listed, such as headphones and earbuds, are primarily designed for listening to audio rather than providing noise protection. Hearing aids and assistive listening devices are meant to amplify sound for individuals with hearing loss rather than protect against noise exposure. Capacitive sensors and audio dampeners do not serve as personal hearing protectors, making them unsuitable choices for preventing noise-induced hearing loss in the workplace.