Which hearing protection fits?
Too much attenuation is as wrong as too little. Set the noise level or choose a noise source: the finder calculates what reaches the ear and sorts by the recommended range of 70 to 80 dB(A).
Loading the finder.
How the finder calculates
The finder uses the HML check of DGUV Rule 112-194 (September 2024 edition, annexes 1 and 2), the German Social Accident Insurance rule on the use of hearing protectors: level at the ear = noise level − (M − real-world deduction), for low-frequency noise noise level − (L − real-world deduction). The real-world deduction is 9 dB for formable foam earplugs and 5 dB for pre-moulded earplugs, banded earplugs and earmuffs. Only H/M/L values from the user instructions are used.
According to the rule, mid- to high-frequency sources include grinding, cutting-off and woodworking machines; low-frequency sources include excavators, piston compressors and blasting plants. More in SNR and H/M/L explained. The noise sources in the finder come from publications by DGUV, BAuA, BG BAU and BGN (German accident insurers and the federal institute for occupational safety); the source is shown below the selection. More measured values by machine and trade are in the noise levels table. The result is a calculated guide: wearing time, warning signals, other protective equipment and hearing impairments belong in the risk assessment.
Rating of the level at the ear
| above 85 dB(A) | Not permitted (in Germany § 8 LärmVibrationsArbSchV) |
| above 80 to 85 dB(A) | Not recommended |
| 70 to 80 dB(A) | Recommended |
| below 70 dB(A) | Check communication and sense of isolation (overprotection) |
Rating according to DGUV Rule 112-194. More in Overprotection and Legal requirements.
Frequently asked questions about the finder
How do you calculate which hearing protection is suitable?
With the HML check of DGUV Rule 112-194: level at the ear = noise level − (M value − real-world deduction), for low-frequency noise with the L value. By calculation, hearing protection is suitable if the level at the ear is between 70 and 80 dB(A). Whether it suits everyday work is shown by a wearing trial and the risk assessment.
What is the real-world deduction?
A deduction from the M or L value, because hearing protection fits less well in practice than in the laboratory. DGUV Rule 112-194 specifies 9 dB for formable foam earplugs and 5 dB for pre-moulded earplugs, banded earplugs and earmuffs. It does not apply to qualified use with practical training at least four times a year.
Why doesn't the finder show every item number?
The finder combines many variants with the same test values into one row, for example the colours of the conical foam earplugs under EP1227BWG. Dispensers and refill bags contain the EP1227GY earplugs; their values apply. All colours and versions are listed on the product pages. Calculations use the H/M/L values of the products; the SNR alone is not enough for selection.
Does the finder replace the risk assessment?
No. It is a guide. Selection is still based on measuring or determining the noise and on the risk assessment in the company.