Earmuffs

Earmuffs

Hearing protection cups that cover the outer ear with cushions sealing against the head. Preferred where hearing protection goes on and off frequently (intermittent noise exposure), where supervisors need a visible compliance check, and in low-hygiene environments where earplug handling isn't acceptable. Range covers SLC80 Class 2 through 5 for all common industrial noise environments.

Mounting styles

• Over-head band — the default. Worn with ball-caps, sun hats, or on its own. Incompatible with hard hats unless the helmet is removed or swapped for a helmet-mounted pair.
• Behind-neck band — for workers wearing hard hats where over-head band doesn't fit. Keeps the top of the head clear for helmets and wide-brim hats.
• Under-chin band — niche configuration for specific headwear combinations.
• Helmet-mounted — clip directly to slots on hard hats (Type 1 helmets per AS/NZS 1801). Most modern construction and mining helmets accept these.
• Folding — fold into a compact form for glove-box or toolbox storage.

Electronic earmuffs

Integrated microphones amplify low-level sound (speech, reversing alarms) while attenuating sudden high-level noise (gunshot, pneumatic-tool discharge). Right for workers moving between quiet and noisy zones — foresters, shooters, plant operators in mixed environments. Battery life 200–500 hours typical; most take standard AA or AAA cells.

Comfort factors

• Cup depth — deeper cups give more headroom around the ear; shallower cups are lower-profile but can press on the ear itself.
• Cushion material — foam cushions are light and comfortable; gel cushions seal better against spectacles and irregular head shapes.
• Headband force — too tight causes headaches; too loose loses the seal. Adjustable bands help across a workforce.
• Weight — lighter muffs are more comfortable for long shifts; the trade-off is lower attenuation class.

Fit and seal

An earmuff's SLC80 only applies when it seals properly. Common seal-breakers:

• Spectacle arms — long safety-glasses temples pass through the seal gap, degrading attenuation by 3–5 dB. Use gel cushions or wrap-style glasses with thin temples.
• Long hair — hair between cup and head breaks the seal. Tie back or tuck in.
• Facial hair / PPE interfaces — beards and other face-PPE can prevent proper seating; check fit with the full PPE combination worn.
• Band tension lost with age — old earmuffs lose spring tension. Retire when the band no longer pulls the cups firmly against the head.

Maintenance

Wipe cushions daily with an alcohol-free wipe. Replace cushions every 6 months or when cracked, hardened, contaminated, or the foam breaks down. Full earmuff replacement 2–3 years for regular use. Store cups-together (to preserve cushion form) in a clean, dry location out of direct UV.

Standards & compliance

All earmuffs in this range are certified to AS/NZS 1270 with class marking (Class 2 through 5 SLC80). Helmet-mounted variants are certified for compatibility with listed helmet brands.

Frequently asked questions

Can I wear earmuffs with a hard hat?

Only with a helmet-mounted earmuff or a behind-neck-band model. Over-head-band muffs are physically incompatible with full hard hats worn correctly. Helmet-mounted is preferred for construction and mining use.

How does spectacle wear affect earmuff attenuation?

Thick-arm safety glasses break the cushion seal by 3–5 dB typically. Use thin-temple safety glasses or wrap-style specs; gel cushions also help. For heavy-impact or welding goggles, earplugs may be more practical.

When should I replace cushions?

Every 6 months for daily users, or immediately if cracked, hardened, torn, or noticeably less flexible. Hygiene cushions (disposable covers) are available for high-humidity or shared-use environments.

Do you offer trade or bulk pricing?

Yes — trade accounts receive 5% off RRP, and site programs qualify for volume pricing. Replacement-cushion supply programs available for long-term kit-maintenance. Apply for a trade account →