Guides

The best hearing protection for 2026: 10 OSHA-ready earplugs and earmuffs ranked by NRR, fit, and cost-per-wear - foam, corded, reusable, metal-detectable, electronic, and cap-mount picks.

OSHA 29 CFR 1910.95 requires a hearing conservation program when employee noise exposures equal or exceed 85 dBA as an 8-hour TWA. The program includes noise monitoring, audiometric testing (baseline and annual), hearing protection provision and use, employee training, and recordkeeping.

What Is NRR: NRR - Noise Reduction Rating - is a single number, measured in decibels (dB), required by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) on all hearing protection sold in the United States under 40 CFR Part 211.