Hearing Protection

The Hearing Care Partnership provides expert hearing protection services ranging from basic ear plugs to custom-moulded specialist products for music, shooting, motor sports, water sports and much more. Just speak to one of our experienced audiologists about your requirements.

A man playing saxophone with hearing protection.
A group of friend in front of a tent watching fireworks.

How does noise damage your hearing

Noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) is caused by repeated exposure to excessive noise levels or even brief exposure to a sudden loud noise, such as an explosion. There are tiny hair cells in our ears which transmit signals for the brain to interpret as sound. When these are damaged by pressure waves (sound waves), the transmission of signals from the inner ear to the brain is also affected, so your hearing deteriorates.

The damage caused to the hair cells in your ears is permanent, which means the hearing loss is irreversible. However, it can be prevented with good quality hearing protection. Loud working environments used to be a primary contributor to NIHL, leading to the introduction of the Control of Noise at Work Regulations 2005. Nowadays, recreational activities can be a more significant cause of noise-induced hearing loss.

Decibel gauge stopping at 70dB.

How loud is too loud?

Volume is measured in decibel sound pressure (dBSPL).

A jet engine is around 150 dBSPL, while absolute silence is 0 dBSPL. Normal conversation is between 40-60 dBSPL.

Permanent hearing damage can occur with any noise over 85 dBSPL.

Traffic on a busy road can be up to 90 dBSPL, so even that can begin to take a toll on your hearing with long-term exposure.

A man playing saxophone with hearing protection.

Ear Plugs and Specialist Hearing Protection

As well as general use ear plugs, The Hearing Care Partnership can provide custom-made ear plugs and in-ear monitors for more specialist use. We offer bespoke hearing protection including musician ear plugs that lower the volume without compromising sound clarity, ear plugs for motor sport that have a low profile to fit comfortably under a helmet, ear plugs for shooting, ear plugs for swimming and even ear plugs for sleeping.

How do I book an appointment?

Book online

Book a free hearing protection consultation at your preferred practice

Book by phone

Call us on 0800 52 00 546. Lines are open Monday – Saturday 08:30 – 17:00.