What does the term "hearing protector" encompass?

The term "hearing protector" specifically refers to devices designed to attenuate sound levels in order to protect a person's hearing from excessive noise exposure. Earplugs and earmuffs, which are included in this definition, are explicitly designed for this purpose—they work by creating a barrier that reduces the intensity of harmful sounds that can cause hearing loss.

High-fidelity audio devices are designed for clarity and accuracy in sound reproduction rather than for noise reduction, which does not align with the purpose of hearing protectors. Devices for sound amplification, such as hearing aids, are intended to aid individuals with hearing loss by amplifying sounds, but they do not protect against loud sounds that can lead to further hearing damage. Noise-cancelling headphones, while they may reduce background noise, are generally geared towards providing an enjoyable listening experience rather than offering protection against hazardous noise environments. Thus, the most accurate understanding of "hearing protector" aligns with options that explicitly reduce sound exposure, making earplugs and earmuffs the correct representation.