Cut Sheet

Gunshots
Protection is needed when shooting at both
indoor and outdoor ranges. For some people,
exposure to one unprotected shot can spell
permanent hearing loss.
Power Tools
Semi-insert devices or earmuffs can be
effective and convenient protection for these
intermittent exposures
Chain Saws & Leaf Blowers
Hearing protection is a must whenever operating
these very loud tools. Not only will you protect
your hearing, but you will feel
more relaxed too.
Aircraft
When flying in small aircraft, foam earplugs or
other hearing protectors are suggested. Pilots
need protection too.
Music
If it’s too loud, even music can be harmful to your
hearing. Keep a safe distance from loudspeakers
and if necessary, such as at concerts, wear
hearing protection.
Radio Headphones
Be smart – keep the music turned to safe levels.
As a rule of thumb, while listening to headphones
you should still be able to hear others speaking
to you from a few feet away.
Nuisance Noise
For these noises simply pick that plug or muff that is
comfortable for you. For snoring the plug of choice
will almost always be a foam plug for its combination
of great noise reduction and nightlong comfort.
For Additional Information
For additional discussion of hearing
and its protection, for product
information, or for an electronic copy
of this pamphlet go to:
www.e-a-r.com/hearingconservation
Where to Buy
Hardware stores and home centers,
pharmacies, sporting goods stores and
gun dealers, music stores, on the web
and industrial safety distributors.
Noise Is All
Around
Be aware of noisy situations
such as the ones illustrated to
the right, so you can protect
yourself and enjoy a lifetime
of good hearing.
Author: Elliott H. Berger, M.S.,
3M Division Scientist
70-0715-7001-7
Printed in U.S.A.
© 2010 3M Company.
3M and all other trademarks used herein
or hereon are trademarks of 3M Company,
used under license in Canada.
3M Occupational Health &
Environmental Safety Division
3M Center - Building 235-2W-70
Saint Paul, MN 55144-1000
Technical Assistance: 1-800-243-4630
e-a-r.com/hearingconservation.com
WARNING!
Hearing protectors help reduce exposure to hazardous noise and other loud sounds. Misuse or failure to wear hearing protectors at all times that you are
exposed to hazardous noise may result in hearing loss or injury. For proper use, see user instructions, supervisor, or call 3M in U.S.A. at 1-800-243-4630.
In Canada, call Technical Service at 1-800-267-4414. If there is any drainage from your ear or you have an ear infection, consult with your physician before
wearing earplugs. Failure to do so may result in hearing loss or injury.
*Research suggests that many users will receive less noise reduction than indicated by the NRR due to variation in earplug fit and wearing time. It is
recommended that the NRR be reduced by 50% for estimating the average amount of noise reduction provided.