Two of the most common options in Australia are earmuffs and earplugs. While both reduce noise exposure, each suits different work conditions.
As Australia’s trusted providers of hearing protection, we will explain the difference between earmuffs and earplugs and which one may best suit your needs.
Earmuffs
Earmuffs fit over the ears and create a seal around them. They are easy to put on and remove, making them ideal for workplaces with intermittent noise.
Best for:
- Intermittent or changing noise levels
- Cold or dusty environments
- Shared PPE use
Key benefits:
- Quick and simple to use
- Comfortable for most users
- Less invasive than earplugs
Buy Earmuffs
Earplugs
Earplugs are inserted into the ear canal, providing direct noise reduction. They are lightweight and discreet, making them suitable for consistently loud environments.
Best for:
- Continuous loud noise (factories, mining)
- Use with helmets, goggles, or face shields
- Long shifts and portability
- Key benefits:
Compact and easy to carry
- Compact and easy to carry
- Effective for prolonged exposure
- Comfortable for extended wear when fitted correctly
Buy Earplugs
Why Hearing Protection Matters
Many common tools produce noise levels well above safe limits. Noise above 85 dB can damage hearing over time, while exposure to 100 dB or more can cause harm in minutes—or even seconds. Once hearing is damaged, it cannot be restored.
Choose the Right Protection
Whether you need the convenience of earmuffs or the all-day comfort of earplugs, the right choice depends on your work environment and exposure level. At Inside Out Safety, we offer a wide range of quality hearing protection to help keep your ears safe on the job.
Explore our range today and protect your hearing at work.