Reference

Consumer noise-canceling headphones are not hearing protection: they carry no EPA NRR label, so their attenuation cannot be evaluated under OSHA's Appendix B. This guide covers OSHA's 2023 interpretation, why ANC is not attenuation, how rated Bluetooth and electronic earmuffs differ, and a worked AirPods-request example.

The right protector is the one a worker will actually wear all shift while still getting below 85 dBA. This guide shows you how to choose hearing protection: matching derated NRR to your noise level, comparing earplugs, earmuffs, and banded plugs, weighing comfort and communication needs, and knowing when to double up devices.