Ear plugs are a popular and effective way to reduce noise exposure, but many people are surprised to find that they can still hear sounds with ear plugs in. This phenomenon is known as "occasional hearing" and it occurs because ear plugs do not completely block out all sound.
Ear plugs work by reducing the amount of sound that enters the ear canal. They do this by creating a physical barrier that blocks sound waves and by creating a seal that prevents air from carrying sound into the ear.
However, even with a good seal, some sound will still be able to enter the ear canal. This is because sound can also travel through bone conduction, which occurs when sound waves are transmitted through the skull and into the inner ear.
Additionally, certain types of ear plugs may also allow some sound to pass through. For example, ear plugs that are made from foam or wax can compress when pressure is applied, allowing sound to pass through.
Similarly, flange ear plugs have small openings at the tips that allow air to enter and exit the ear canal, which can also allow some sound to pass through.
It's also important to note that, the level of sound reduction achieved by ear plugs will depend on the type of ear plug and how well they fit. A poorly fitting ear plug will not provide as much protection as a well-fitting one.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while ear plugs are an effective way to reduce noise exposure, they do not completely block out all sound. This is because sound can enter the ear through bone conduction and certain types of ear plugs may also allow some sound to pass through. To achieve maximum protection, it is important to choose the right type of ear plug and to ensure that they fit properly.
OAKEYS safety has a great range of ear plugs of different shapes and sizes with cords or without to ensure our clients have the perfect hearing protection options, follow the link below to see our full range of hearing protection.
Ear Defenders & Ear Plugs
