Ear protection refers to devices used to protect the ear, either externally from elements such as cold, intrusion by water and other environmental conditions, debris, or specifically from noise. High levels of exposure to noise may result in noise-induced hearing loss.

Proper hearing protection is designed to reduce the exposure of your nerves to the sounds, thus saving them from damage. There are three basic types of ear protection available: earplugs, earmuffs, and tactical hearing devices. Earplugs fit snugly into the ear canal and help seal out loud noises.