Ear Defenders

About Ear Defenders

Ear defenders are essential personal protective equipment (PPE) designed to protect hearing from hazardous noise levels in construction sites, workshops, factories, and industrial environments. MyToolShed.co.uk stocks a comprehensive range of ear defenders from trusted brands including Portwest, Sealey, Scan, Draper, and Vitrex, offering various designs to suit different working conditions. From classic over-head padded models to lightweight foldable versions and clip-on defenders that attach directly to safety helmets, there's a solution for every trade and task.

Modern ear defenders feature different Single Number Rating (SNR) values ranging from 20dB to 37dB, allowing you to match protection levels to specific noise exposure. Whether you need high-visibility models for site safety, neckband designs that work seamlessly with hard hats, or premium padded options for all-day comfort, all products at MyToolShed.co.uk meet BS EN 352 standards for certified hearing protection.

Applications

Ear defenders are crucial PPE for trades and professions exposed to hazardous noise levels, including:

• Construction Workers: Site operatives working around heavy machinery, compressors, and power tools
• Carpenters and Joiners: Chippies using circular saws, routers, planers, and woodworking equipment
• Metalworkers and Fabricators: Welders and grinders using angle grinders and cutting equipment
• Ground Workers and Landscapers: Operators of chainsaws, hedge trimmers, and petrol-powered tools
• Factory and Warehouse Workers: Personnel in manufacturing environments with continuous machinery noise
• Demolition Operatives: Workers using breakers, jackhammers, and heavy demolition equipment
• DIY Enthusiasts: Home improvers using power tools, lawnmowers, and workshop machinery

Choosing The Right Ear Defenders

Noise Level Assessment: Determine your typical noise exposure. For power tool use (85-95dB), ear defenders with SNR 25-30dB are usually sufficient. Industrial machinery or demolition work requires SNR values of 30dB or above. HSE regulations mandate hearing protection at 80dB and make it compulsory at 85dB.

Wearing Style: Over-head models offer maximum comfort for all-day wear without hard hats. Neckband designs work perfectly with safety helmets without interference. Clip-on ear defenders attach directly to compatible helmets, providing integrated protection ideal for construction sites.

Comfort Features: Look for padded headbands and cushioned ear cups for extended wearing periods. Adjustable sizing ensures a proper seal around ears, crucial for effective noise reduction. Lightweight foldable designs reduce neck strain and offer convenient storage in toolboxes.

Visibility: High-visibility yellow or orange ear defenders improve safety on busy sites by making you more visible to machinery operators and colleagues.

Safety Information

Always ensure ear defenders form a complete seal around your ears – glasses, long hair, or hard hat straps can break the seal and significantly reduce protection. Check the SNR rating matches your workplace noise exposure levels, as inadequate protection can still result in permanent hearing damage. Inspect ear defenders regularly for wear and tear, particularly cushioned seals and headband padding. Replace damaged components immediately as compromised PPE provides false security. Clean ear defenders regularly according to manufacturer instructions, especially when shared between workers, to maintain hygiene and acoustic performance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I wear ear defenders with a hard hat?

Yes, but you need the right type. Neckband ear defenders are specifically designed to work with safety helmets without interference. Alternatively, clip-on ear defenders attach directly to compatible hard hats. Standard over-head models can compromise hard hat fit and positioning.

How do I know what SNR rating I need?

The SNR you need depends on workplace noise exposure. For typical workshop noise (85-95dB) from power tools, an SNR of 25-30dB is adequate. Industrial environments or demolition work may require SNR values of 30dB or higher. Your employer should conduct a noise assessment to determine appropriate protection levels.

How often should I replace ear defenders?

Replace ear defenders when cushioned seals become hard, cracked, or lose their shape, as this compromises the acoustic seal. With regular use in harsh conditions, expect replacement every 1-2 years. Always prioritise proper function over cost savings for hearing protection.