Which equipment is recommended to protect from noise exposure?

The recommended equipment to protect against noise exposure is earplugs and ear defenders. This combination offers comprehensive protection and effectively reduces the risk of noise-induced hearing damage, especially in an aviation environment where sound levels can be quite high.

Earplugs create a seal in the ear canal to block out a significant amount of sound, while ear defenders, often referred to as earmuffs, cover the entire outer ear and provide additional sound insulation. Using both together maximizes the attenuation of sound, ensuring more significant protection compared to using just one type of device.

In aviation operations, particularly when flying or working around aircraft, noise levels can reach harmful levels during takeoff, landing, and engine operation. Thus, utilizing both earplugs and ear defenders is a best practice for maintaining long-term ear health.

Other options, such as a headset only, flight helmets alone, or foam earplugs, may offer partial protection but often do not provide the same level of comprehensive sound reduction that a combination of earplugs and ear defenders can achieve. Relying solely on one type of protection could leave individuals vulnerable to harmful noise exposure.