Prevention is the best solution
Quality Custom Ear Plugs and Hearing Protection in Halifax
At Clayton Park Audiology we care about protecting and preserving your hearing health. We offer a variety of high-quality custom ear plugs specially designed for various occupational and recreational settings. Educational advice and tools on safe listening levels and duration of exposure are also provided.
Noise plug Swim plug Sleep plug Musician plug
The Benefits of Custom Hearing Protection
Custom hearing protection can help protect against noise-induced hearing loss caused by prolonged exposure to loud sounds over 85 decibels. Occupational noise exposure such as industrial workplaces, recreational noise exposure such as concerts and sporting events, and brief exposure to intense sounds created by firearms and some power tools put individuals at risk.
Custom ear plugs
Custom ear plugs include sleep plugs for light sleepers and/or shift workers. They also include swim plugs which are used by individuals with perforated ear drums or pressure equalization tubes to keep water out of their ears.
At Clayton Park Audiology custom hearing protection and custom plugs are designed for the individual needs of the client. Our clinic offers a variety of vented and non-vented plug styles with varying noise reduction ratings (NRR).
Why Custom is Better
Custom Ear Plugs
Offering the highest level of protection, custom ear plugs are made for your exact ear shape and size. An impression is taken of each ear and sent to the lab with instructions on fit, colour, venting, and other personalization options. Made with high-quality materials, these plugs can be worn comfortably for long periods of time and can last several years.
Molded Ear Plugs
Offering a lower level of protection, these DIY plugs can be molded to your ear canal. Made with soft silicone or wax, these plugs often do not fit properly allowing sound to enter the ear canal and do not last as long as a custom plug.
Disposable Ear Plugs
Typically offering the lowest level of protection, these plugs are not custom made to your ear, are often not inserted properly, and are uncomfortable to wear for long periods of time. These plugs are usually made of silicone, latex, or foam.
Do You Need Custom Hearing Protection?
First Responders
Exposure to sirens, firearms, explosions, public disturbances, and loud event coverage place first responders at increased risk for noise induced hearing loss. Our clinic offers practical custom hearing protection options that are easy to store and carry.
We are happy to assist and support clients in the application process for hearing aid benefits with the Workers Compensation Board of Nova Scotia (WCB) and Veteran’s Affairs Canada (VAC).
Industrial workers
In Nova Scotia, work-related noise induced hearing loss is considered to be an occupational disease. Exposure to hazardous noise levels exceeding a limit of 85 dB over an 8-hour shift can lead to hearing loss and permanent damage. Those working in airports, construction, factories and farming are at the highest risk.
Our clinic is happy to assist and support clients in the application process for hearing aid benefits with the Workers Compensation Board of Nova Scotia (WCB) and Veteran’s Affairs Canada (VAC).
Musicians
Musicians working in high decibel environments for long durations and without proper hearing protection can suffer from noise-induced hearing loss and hypersensitivity to sounds. Custom earplugs designed specifically for musicians needing to monitor their performance without distorting sounds and whilst providing protection are available. Our team can assist you with finding the best solution for your needs.
Hunters
Recreational firearms use places individuals at an increased risk for noise-induced hearing loss. With gun shot sound levels exceeding 140 dB, permanent hearing loss can occur with just one unprotected shot. Using non-vented custom hearing protection (and doubling up with earmuffs) can prevent damage to your hearing. Our team can help you in designing a custom earplug with the maximum possible protection.
Teachers and Dentists
Teachers, especially those teaching preschool and primary aged children, are often exposed to reverberant teaching environments exceeding 85 dB throughout the day. Years of exposure to these sound levels increases their risk of noise induced hearing loss. Dentists and hygienists are also at risk for noise induced hearing loss. The various dental instruments used throughout the day, such as high-speed drills and suction devices, often exceed 85 dB. This along with a dentist's or hygienist's close proximity to the tools adds an additional layer of risk.