- What to consider when choosing a product
- Mounting methods
- Types of accessory
- Color difference
- Rating of anti-noise headphones
- Best folding options
- The best awkward options
- Which construction noise protection headphones are best to choose?
Protective headphones are necessary to protect your hearing when working in noisy environments. Thanks to their large body, they reliably protect the auricle from sound and physical damage.
When choosing the appropriate personal protective equipment, several important parameters are taken into account:
- First of all, it is important to have certificates of compliance with standards and GOSTs on the safety of personal protective equipment. They guarantee that the materials used for production are of high quality, will not harm health, or cause an allergic reaction. In addition, this guarantees that all tests were successfully completed, and no chips or sharp corners were detected on the structure.
- Operating principle. Products can be active (with a microphone and high sensitivity, for ease of communication with other employees), and passive (the material that fills the bowl completely absorbs any sounds, so if there is no need to communicate with each other, then you can use this protection option).
- Efficient acoustics. Headphones are divided into three classes: up to 98, 105, 110 dB. This depends on the sound level during operation.
- Ergonomics. This parameter ensures comfort while wearing PPE.
When choosing good construction headphones, it is important to pay attention not only to technical indicators. When working, it is important to consider weight, design features and ease of use.
The device consists of two bowls and a headband, due to which it is fixed to the head during operation. For high-quality sound absorption (20-30 dB), the bowl cavity is filled with a special material. Foamed polyurethane is most often used. The bowls themselves should be soft for good sound absorption. The headband is designed to securely fix the product on the head.
There are several types of fastening:
- headband, standard for general use;
- on a helmet, provided that the selected model matches the helmet;
- standard headband design;
- Neck strap for easy wearing with caps or sun visors;
- foldable, with the ability to adjust the length of the headband.
Typically, the headband is made of two materials: thermoplastic or metal. The structural element must be flexible, but at the same time durable for long-term use.
The device contains not only the main parts. There are also accessories that are located in the cup of the design.
Divided into two types:
- Overlay. Intended for one-time use. This is a hygienic product that is made of thin material.
- Obturator. A part in the form of a roller of various shapes. Designed to seal ear cups.
Both accessories are classified as individual products. The first option is changed after each use of the device, the second - as the material wears out. In case of frequent use, it is recommended to change the seals at least twice a year.
There are many models available in the market in a variety of colors. There are options for combined colors.
But as a rule, the choice of color has its own meaning:
- black or gray are designed for work in places with a low threshold of danger;
- orange or red are used in most cases on the construction site.
The bright color of the device allows workers to be better seen at the enterprise, thereby providing an additional protective function.
Rating of anti-noise headphones
The rating of noise-absorbing headphones includes models that received the most positive reviews from customers. When choosing devices, we took into account their technical characteristics, ease of wearing, quality of construction and their cost.
Name | Rating | Price, ₽ |
Best folding options | ||
1. Howard Thunder T1F | 9,9 | 1000 |
2. INTERLAGOS (SNR 30 dB) | 9,8 | 1210 |
3. 3M Peltor Optime 1 | 9,7 | 1400 |
4. Kraftool Expert 11362 | 9,3 | 900 |
5. Bison Expert 11370 | 9,1 | 900 |
6. DDE 647-666 | 8,9 | 500 |
The best awkward options | ||
1. Kraftool Expert 11360 | 9,8 | 1150 |
2. SEPANG 2 (SNR 26 dB) | 9,6 | 740 |
3. Husqvarna 5056990-12 | 9,5 | 1200 |
4. SOMZ-3 PUMA | 9,3 | 290 |
5. Source | 9,1 | 350 |
6. UNEX K200 | 8,8 | 1200 |
How to use it correctly
To ensure that earplugs do not cause discomfort, and the results from their use are most effective, when using them you need to follow a few simple rules:
- 1 Wash your hands with soap and water before using earplugs. Then take the earbuds out of the case or box and, if there are creases or folds on their surface, smooth them out, since most often they cause discomfort.
- 2 The plug prepared in this way must be inserted into the ear canal with slow movements, slightly turning around its axis. To form a seal and make it airtight, preventing air from entering, lightly press on the base of the ear canal to fill the space of the ear canal.
- 3 After the earplugs fill the ear canal, they need to be held until they take the appropriate shape.
- 4 Because all silicone tips are located at the exit of the ear canal, and not inside it, they do not need to be inserted too deeply.
Earplugs must be kept clean. If reusable silicone products are too dirty, sticky and difficult to clean, and they have not reached the end of their service life, they still need to be replaced.
In addition, when choosing earplugs, it is advisable to take into account their size. Small earbuds can fall out of your ear while you sleep, and too large ones will put pressure on the walls of the ear canal and cause discomfort.
DDE 647-666
The product is intended for asphalt paving workers with jackhammer operation. Construction headphones with wide cups that completely cover the ears. The wide headband evenly distributes the load of the device and increases stability on the head. Thanks to these characteristics, the model can be worn on the head for a long time without causing discomfort. When not in use, they can be folded neatly and compactly without further damage.
Pros:
- a light weight;
- easy to use, easy to put on and take off with one hand;
- the overlays are attached to a metal frame;
- soft but durable material provides better bendability;
- strong internal shock absorber made of plastic;
- compact, can be carried in a jacket pocket.
Minuses:
- cannot be attached to a helmet;
- The bright red body gets dirty easily.
Where and when do you need noise reduction?
Noise-cancelling headphones are usually recommended for use on long trips. A typical advertising poster shows a well-dressed middle-aged man in business class on an airplane. I haven’t been in business very often, but I can say for sure that in economy class on international flights, you always come across a couple of people putting noise canceling headphones on their heads immediately after takeoff. And in those moments when I forgot mine, I always sincerely envied such people.
If you think about it, a plane or, say, a train is far from the only reason to use noise-canceling headphones. The subway can be no less noisy, and just being on a busy city street, it’s difficult to listen to music while ignoring the noise of cars passing by. An even more interesting story is the use of such headphones indoors. For what? Well, let's say, you can listen to music at home and not hear the TV running. And in an office that buzzes like a beehive during the day, you can work calmly and concentratedly in silence and comfort. And let your colleagues envy your peace of mind!
The bottom line: Noise-canceling headphones are relevant in a lot more situations than you might think.
Life hack: Do you want to remain in silence and solitude when there is noise and chaos around? Get good noise canceling headphones. There is no better way to “turn off the sound” for a while.
Bison Expert 11370
The device has a bright, but at the same time not off-brand blue color. The manufacturing company is a well-known domestic enterprise ZUBR. The headphones stand out for their convenient folding design. Due to this, they are easily transported and stored, which extends their service life. The design includes a self-regulating headband. Due to this, adjustment to the required size is quick and easy.
A distinctive feature of construction headphones Zubr Expert 11370 is the permissible noise level of 105 dB, and the noise is reduced by 30 dB.
Pros:
- adequate price for such characteristics;
- convenient headband adjustment;
- noise reduction by 30 dB;
- good noise insulation allows you to work comfortably during active construction;
- convenient and easy to use;
- compact when folded.
Minuses:
- The size will not fit all head sizes, despite being adjustable.
GOST requirements for the design and materials of protective headphones
Choosing the right model from a wide range is considered a difficult task. In addition to the criteria, experts advise taking into account the compliance of products with GOST requirements.
Regulatory documents regulating the quality of protective headphones: the requirements of TR CU 19/2011 “On the safety of personal protective equipment” or TU 2568-003-36438019-2009, GOST R 12.4.208-99.
To make choosing a model easier, you need to narrow the range of options under consideration, leaving only certified products. It meets the following requirements.
- The materials used in the production of headphones are not capable of causing harm to human health. When using the products, an allergic reaction and the appearance of signs of skin irritation are excluded. All structural elements can be subjected to regular hygienic treatment without loss of performance characteristics.
- The elements of the product do not have sharp fragments or hangnails that can damage the skin. The headband has a comfortable shape. If there are replaceable seals and liners, the process of changing equipment is carried out without the use of additional tools and devices.
- Before being sent for sale, finished products are tested to confirm the quality and effectiveness of sound insulation.
All ear protection is classified into three noise absorption classes:
- 1st – reduce noise up to 98 dB;
- 2nd – up to 105 dB;
- 3- - up to 110 dB.
To select the most efficient model, it is recommended to measure the noise level in the workplace.
Kraftool Expert 11362
The headphone body is made of durable materials: ABS plastic, PVC and polyacetate. Due to this, they are of high quality and are indispensable for any work where there is a high level of sound. The product does not provide for mounting on a helmet, but this does not prevent them from being high-quality protective devices. Noise reduction is achieved through dense ear pads.
Pros:
- high level of protection from extraneous noise (noise reduction up to 29 dB);
- soft headband with easy adjustment;
- The design allows you to fold the headphones for easy storage and transportation.
Minuses:
- fragile headband, which is why the headphones may break after several months of active use;
- The headband design is tight, so when worn for a long time, the worker can quickly get tired.
FAQ
How to care for sleep headphones?
Hygiene is important when using any headphones. Clean fabric headbands regularly or wash them gently, after removing the electronic parts from inside. Clean the ear pads and body 2-3 times a week from dirt with an antibacterial wipe or ear stick. Store the model in a case that protects it from dust.
Are there any contraindications for wearing headphones to sleep?
The device, made in compliance with all technologies, is not hazardous to health. But, despite this, somnologists do not recommend wearing it every night or using it if there is hearing loss, inflammatory processes in the ears, or apnea.
Where to buy headphones for sleep?
Headphones for sleeping are sold in regular electronics stores. The problem is that there is often little choice there. Online stores have a wider range of products, so many people order such products online after studying video reviews and reviews.
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3M Peltor Optime 1
Another model of noise-absorbing hearing protection. They are recommended for use when working with noise levels up to 80 dB, acoustic efficiency – 27 dB. Most often they are used when working with a drill or saw. When folded, they are very compact and light. They are easy to care for and can be easily disassembled and washed.
Pros:
- the design can be easily disassembled, which makes it easy to wash them or replace the part in case of failure;
- simple but effective mechanism;
- compact, when folded they take up little space;
- High noise insulation will allow you to work in them for a long time without feeling tired.
Minuses:
- the model is not suitable for all head sizes;
- The price is too high for the stated characteristics.
Harsh reality
It's time to curb the ardor and enthusiasm of all those who have already decided to buy noise-cancelling headphones. And talk about what never ends up in manufacturers' advertising brochures.
In the Koss range, noise-cancelling models have either an external or internal microphone. The main thing is not to make a mistake when choosing
First, only the most high-tech and expensive headphones can create anything resembling complete silence. Most noise reduction systems are effective only in part of the audible frequency range. For example, on an airplane you will not hear a hum, but you will be able to understand the speech of your interlocutor without removing your headphones, or, conversely, the voice will be barely distinguishable, but high- and low-frequency noise will disturb your hearing.
Secondly, quite often the headphones themselves make noise. Yes, yes, that’s right: noise cancelers make noise. It is a fact. The noise canceling circuit is essentially an amplifier that can generate high-frequency noise that ranges from barely audible in high-end models to an audible hiss in lower-end models.
Thirdly, a change in the nature of the sound. Most noise-canceling headphones have an off button and are capable of passive operation. So, headphones with noise reduction turned on and off are two completely different models in terms of sound character. Some will see this as a plus, like two in one, while others will find it annoying. The battery runs out, and instead of a refined, light sound, we get a bass drone.
Bose headphones used to have a built-in battery, but newer models are powered by AAA batteries
Fourthly, this is nutrition. All active noise canceling headphones are either rechargeable or battery operated. Even if you use a mobile battery that can charge any gadget at an altitude of 10,000 meters above the ground, I would recommend models with replaceable batteries (usually we are talking about standard AA or AAA type “finger-type” ones). Charging the built-in battery takes time, but you can simply replace the batteries and continue using the headphones.
The bottom line: With the exception of expensive models, noise-canceling headphones are a compromise between acoustic comfort and sound quality in favor of the former.
Life hack: Without trying it, you won’t understand the benefits of noise reduction. Personally, I was skeptical about such headphones until I used them once during a 10-hour flight.
INTERLAGOS (SNR 30 dB)
The model is comfortable and bright. The design includes cups made of ABS plastic and pads made of synthetic foam. It is possible to adjust the headband. For convenience and increased strength, the headband is double, made of plastic, with a stiffener rib and ventilation holes. The product is sold together with a bag for storage and transportation, as well as devices for wearing them on a belt.
Pros:
- double durable headboard, which increases service life;
- durable but soft construction material;
- the package includes a special device for wearing them on a belt;
- not heavy, so you can wear them for a long time.
Minuses:
- not detected.
Polyurethane earplugs
This is a simple and inexpensive solution. Polyurethane earplugs are soft earplugs that expand into the ear canal to block noise. They were originally designed to work in noisy environments, so they help reduce the overall noise level, but do not block it completely and allow you to hear someone else's speech.
“I use earplugs, headphones and white noise,” says David Cofer. He adds: “I love the white noise app on my phone, it’s really good at replacing outside noise with pleasant sounds.”
“Polyurethane earplugs,” recommends Laurie McNally. – I don’t go anywhere without these orange earplugs, sometimes I wear them all day. With them you can hear everything that’s going on around you, it’s just that everything becomes quieter and less infuriating.”
Brittany Koch adds: “The obvious solution. They are essentially disposable, so you buy a lot of them at once. You can put a pair in your bag or keep it on hand at home, at work, anywhere. I use them when shopping - they reduce the anxiety that I always feel in stores."
Howard Thunder T1F
American assembly of high quality with a comfortable fit. They have a dielectric design, which additionally protects against shock and damage to the product. There is a possibility that if you sweat a lot, the ear pads may slip a lot. This model is available in green color and black headband.
Their only drawback is the overpriced headphones. Therefore, you can look for analogues, but with a lower price.
Pros:
- high quality wear-resistant material was used in the design;
- comfortable fit ensures comfortable long-term wearing;
- compact when folded, allow you to carry it in your pocket;
- high quality noise reduction.
Minuses:
- Overpriced for such features.
UNEX K200
Despite the fact that the model is in last place in the ranking, this does not mean that it is bad. The UNEX K200 device is dielectric type, absorbs noise SNR 28 dB. The model has a stylish design, light weight and comfortable ear pads that completely hide the human ear. Available in two colors on the market: black and yellow. The cup can rotate 360°. The device can be used when working with power tools.
Pros:
- 360° cup adjustment, providing a wide range of positions;
- There is an adjustment of the length of the bow to select the most convenient size;
- light weight and maximum fit ensure comfort when working;
- dielectric model.
Minuses:
- The price is too high for the specified characteristics.
Contraindications
The masks have no contraindications for use, the only thing is that it is not recommended to use maximum volume to suppress noise from extraneous sounds. Also, daily use is not advisable, as addiction is possible.
When choosing a particular model of headband headphones, it is better to give preference to natural fabrics, as they do not cause allergies. I choose more affordable synthetics, take into account your characteristics and tendency to irritation.
Plugs should not be used by those who have wax plugs or hearing diseases. Earplugs made from the following materials can absorb noise:
- Economical and lightweight foam rubber, suitable for one-time use.
- Individual wax, developed for a specific user.
- In-demand silicone, practical and easy to clean.
It is important to pay attention to points that may arise during the daily use of soundproofing liners:
- Possible addiction.
- There may be inflammation in case of improper hygiene.
- Unpleasant sensations if the plugs are placed incorrectly and too deep.
Source
Passive model with 22 dB noise reduction. Designed to protect against increased noise when working with tools. Most often used in mining and other industries.
The model stands out for its simplicity, without unnecessary details and elements. The ear pads completely cover the auricle. The headband clearly follows the shape of the head, which provides additional wearing comfort. The bright color allows the worker to be clearly seen and acts as an additional signaling element in workwear.
Pros:
- light weight of the device, distribution of pressure throughout the head, to reduce discomfort when wearing;
- adjustable headband allows you to adjust the product to the required size;
- dielectric design, allows use when working with power tools;
- inexpensive model;
- can be used in conjunction with other personal protective equipment.
Minuses:
- Long-term use may damage the headband adjustment mechanism.
What are earplugs
Modern earplugs are very simple and at the same time effective gadgets, in the form of small elastic soft cones inserted with the narrow end forward into the upper part of the external auditory canals. They tightly and hermetically seal the ears, cutting off extraneous sounds that prevent a person from falling asleep.
For the first time, the term earplugs, composed of parts of the words “take care of your ears,” was used by Russian academician, professor of physical and mathematical sciences Igor Vasilyevich Petryanov-Sokolov. He gave this name to his new development - loose-fiber fabric made from ultra-thin polyvinyl chloride fibers. Later, earplugs made from it became known as earplugs.
Their scope of application is not limited to noise protection during sleep. Depending on the design features and material of manufacture, earplugs will also prevent water from entering the ear canals when swimming, will help equalize intracranial pressure when diving, and will save you from ear pain caused by pressure changes when descending and ascending altitude on an airplane.
SOMZ-3 PUMA
Bright model with black leatherette edging. Due to the fact that they have an enlarged body, they cover the ears well. Thanks to this design, the device can be worn for a long time. Most often they are used when working at a machine. The head fits tightly to the head, the material is elastic plastic, which ensures this tight fit. There is an additional elastic band that adjusts the length for the desired fit of the headphones on the head. Due to the tight fit of the device, noise is reduced by 27 dB.
Pros:
- ease of wearing;
- can be worn with a helmet;
- reliable compression of the linings by shock absorbers;
- high sound absorption with foam-filled earbuds;
- The light weight does not burden you when working.
Minuses:
- yellow color gets dirty quickly;
- Can only be worn with one type of helmet.
On-ear headphones with active noise cancellation: and now like an adult
The elite and heavy artillery in matters of noise suppression are on-ear and full-size headphones. Unlike in-ear headphones, their microphone can be installed not only outside, but also inside the cups. An external microphone is more effective at high and mid frequencies, while an internal microphone has more ability to cancel low-frequency noise, but loses effectiveness as the frequency increases. In other words, headphones for airplanes and subways must have a microphone inside the earcups. And to protect yourself from annoying TV or chatty office colleagues, it’s better to choose on-ear headphones with a microphone installed outside or in-ear noise cancelers.
A well-designed noise canceler has two microphones: one inside the earcup and the other outside
The most advanced and, accordingly, the most expensive headphones have microphones on the outside and inside. Sometimes there are even several such microphones, and if the manufacturer has not made a mistake anywhere, the effect is amazing. Almost like being in an anechoic chamber.
The essence of the issue: The location and number of microphones in the headphones directly affect the quality of noise suppression.
Life hack: Decide what noise you are going to get rid of first. This will help solve the problem without purchasing ultra-expensive multi-microphone models.
Husqvarna 5056990-12
The Husqvarna 5056990-12 model is included in the rating of the best noise-absorbing non-folding headphones. The device has a long service life due to the fact that it is made with high quality and durability. Designed for work with high noise, for example, in the garden or vegetable garden. Easily muffles the work of a lawn mower or walk-behind tractor. They are also well suited for construction and will protect against the noise of construction equipment. The planting depth is adjustable using serrated strips on the sides.
Pros:
- the presence of a wide head increases wearing comfort;
- a thick layer of foam is provided to reduce sounds;
- light weight;
- attractive design;
- The price corresponds to all the stated characteristics.
Minuses:
- cannot be worn with a helmet;
- only height adjustment is provided;
- there is no soft upholstery on the head.
For relaxation
Make sure that new relaxation tracks appear in your audio recordings.
We are talking about using headphones to listen to music before bed - these can be sounds of nature, for example, the sound of rain or surf, birdsong, special audio recordings for meditation, or even audio books that allow you to escape from everyday thoughts and get ready to relax. Such a device is indispensable for those who, once in bed, against their will, begin to replay in their heads the events that happened during the day, or make plans for tomorrow, without allowing the brain to relax and properly recuperate. It is equipped with a pause button and a volume control - the sounds coming from the speakers can be muffled, leaving them only as a light background, or, conversely, increase the volume, completely shutting out extraneous unpleasant noise.
To feel comfortable at night, it is better to buy wireless sleep headphones - the Bluetooth device built into them provides communication with a mobile phone or computer at a distance of 5-10 meters (depending on the model), allowing you to freely change your body position without the risk of getting entangled in wires In playback mode, sleepy headphones can work from 8 to 12 hours, and 2 hours will be enough to fully charge the battery.
SEPANG 2 (SNR 26 dB)
The device is made of ABS plastic, PVC and synthetic material. This provides high impact resistance. Use when working with noisy tools or engines. It is possible to attach headphones to a helmet, while the ear pads provide a tight fit to the ears. If you use them correctly and take proper care, they will retain their properties for a long time.
Pros:
- lightweight, so they are practically not felt during operation;
- ease of care;
- attractive design;
- low cost;
- It can be attached to a helmet.
Minuses:
- The cups are not 360° adjustable.
Ear pads: silence factor
Large, closed-back headphones with over-ear or over-ear ear pads also boast a high degree of passive isolation of external noise. Figuring out which ones can do this better than others is quite simple. Firstly, they must be closed, and secondly a) soft, like the Sennheiser Momentum, b) very soft, like the Bose Quietcomfort, or c) fluffy, with a high-tech foam filler that reacts to heat, like the over-ear models Philips Fidelio.
Lush soft ear pads and a closed design are already good passive noise reduction
Any option will do. And in all cases, the preferred material for finishing the ear pads is the softest possible leather, and the preferred shape is oval. Even without active noise cancellation, these headphones are very effective at eliminating external noise.
The essence of the question: In large headphones, the ear pads are responsible for passive noise reduction. A closed earcup design is a must; leave audiophile open-back headphones for home Hi-Fi gatherings.
Life hack: Choose thicker and softer ear pads. It will be quieter with them, and more pleasant to the ears.
Kraftool Expert 11360
These headphones reduce noise by 32 dB. Which is a very high figure for awkward models. Their main feature is high quality. The design includes a soft headband that does not rub your head. The cups are of a larger type for greater ear protection, the arch is made of steel, and the covering is foam rubber. The headband can be easily adjusted to the desired size.
Pros:
- high noise insulation allows you to work comfortably for a long time;
- compact, easy to transport and store;
- easy adjustment of the headband, you can choose the required size;
- It is easy to replace certain parts or clean them.
Minuses:
- not detected.
Why is loud noise dangerous?
The first and most important danger of loud noise is acoustic injuries. Acoustic trauma is damage to the hearing system caused by exposure to sounds that are too loud or for a long time. In addition to the risk of acoustic injury, loud noise poses other dangers. As a result of intense and prolonged noise exposure, a person may develop headaches, cardiovascular diseases, and symptoms of hypertension. Also, negative noise background affects the psyche and emotional state of a person.