Whether you work in construction or do a lot of tinkering, you should make noise-canceling headphones a priority. This tool will protect your eardrums from loud noises, so it is essential to preserve the health of your ears. There are many models available: passive or communicating earmuffs, with or without music, etc. Read our guide to find out more.
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Our selection
"Peltor's Optime III headphones use a technology that minimizes resonance and maximizes attenuation of the most aggressive noises: double-shell technology. It is the ideal headset…"
"If you're looking for a high-performance noise-canceling headset at a low price, this ProCase headset will satisfy you. Comfortable, ergonomic and with 34dB of attenuation,…"
"Pletor's WS Alert XPI is a high-performance communicating headset. It features Bluetooth technology, a built-in FM radio, a noise-canceling microphone and a level-dependent listening function…"
"If you work in an environment that requires a high level of hearing protection, but where you also need to be very alert, this headset…"
Peltor's Optime III headphones use a technology that minimizes resonance and maximizes attenuation of the most aggressive noises: double-shell technology. It is the ideal headset for extremely noisy environments.
22,63 £ on AmazonThe 3M Peltor Optime III Construction Earmuff is designed for use in extremely harsh and noisy environments. It provides high levels of attenuation of sound dominated by high and low frequencies. It uses a double-wall technology, and its ear cushions are filled with liquid for better noise attenuation. As a result, the Optime II earmuff can provide up to 32 dB IRB (35 dB SNR), one of the best IRB ratings on the market today.
In addition to its performance, it is also very comfortable to wear, thanks to its soft foam-filled cushions that ensure low contact pressure, so you can wear them for long hours without getting tired. This helmet is also available in green, ideal for people who work on high-risk construction sites and need maximum visibility.
If you're looking for a high-performance noise-canceling headset at a low price, this ProCase headset will satisfy you. Comfortable, ergonomic and with 34dB of attenuation, these are some of the best performing entry-level headphones on the market.
14,31 £ on AmazonThe ProCase adult noise-canceling headset offers you a fairly high attenuation rating of 31 dB (IRB). This is thanks to the solid ABS shell, the soft leatherette ear cups that form a tight, soundproof seal, and the thickened sound-absorbing foam padding. These headphones are the perfect hearing protection to help you cope with the noise of a lawn mower, a crowd of people, wood cutting machines, etc.
It's a very comfortable headset: the ergonomic, adjustable headband with soft padding reduces pressure on your head so you can wear it for hours without getting tired. The ear cups have been designed to leave a generous amount of space inside, which ensures very good breathability. Finally, it is a very compact foldable helmet and easily transportable.
Pletor's WS Alert XPI is a high-performance communicating headset. It features Bluetooth technology, a built-in FM radio, a noise-canceling microphone and a level-dependent listening function for ambient listening.
624 £ on Amazon
If you work in an environment that requires a high level of hearing protection, but where you also need to be very alert, this headset is for you. It perfectly filters harmful noise while amplifying normal noise: alarms, conversation, etc.
48,75 £ on AmazonAny specific needs?
The best construction noise-canceling headphones in 2021
The best entry-level construction noise-canceling headphones in 2021
The best high-end construction noise-canceling headphones in 2021
Your guide :
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| TOP OF THE TOP | NOT EXPENSIVE | The alternative | ||
In accordance with our commitment, this buying guide does not contain any sponsored products. |
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7/10 |
9/10 |
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| OUR SELECTION |
3M Peltor Optime III
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ProCase adult noise-cancelling headphones
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3M Peltor WS ALERT XPI
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Honeywell Howard Leight Impact Sport 1013530
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Peltor's Optime III headphones use a technology that minimizes resonance and maximizes attenuation of the most aggressive noises: double-shell technology. It is the ideal headset for extremely noisy environments.
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If you're looking for a high-performance noise-canceling headset at a low price, this ProCase headset will satisfy you. Comfortable, ergonomic and with 34dB of attenuation, these are some of the best performing entry-level headphones on the market.
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Pletor's WS Alert XPI is a high-performance communicating headset. It features Bluetooth technology, a built-in FM radio, a noise-canceling microphone and a level-dependent listening function for ambient listening.
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If you work in an environment that requires a high level of hearing protection, but where you also need to be very alert, this headset is for you. It perfectly filters harmful noise while amplifying normal noise: alarms, conversation, etc.
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IRB/SNR attenuation
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32 dB/35 dB
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31dB/34 dB
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27dB/30dB
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22dB/25dB
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Type
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Headset with headband
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Headset with headband
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Communicating headset with headband
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Headset with headband and voice and sound amplifier up to 82dB
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Technology
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Double-walled to minimize resonance
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Do-it-yourself, gardening, sporting events, all woodworking
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Construction, agriculture, transportation, mining, industrial maintenance
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Shooting range, factories, for military and law enforcement, etc.
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Use (industry)
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Construction, agriculture, transportation, mining
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Protection
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Comfort
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If your hearing protection isn't comfortable, you won't wear it. Choose earmuffs that are comfortable for your ears, and that won't weigh you down or become a nuisance when placed around your neck. Also consider choosing a headset that won't overheat your ears during use.
Noise Reduction Index (NRI) indicates the sound level expressed in decibels that a product can reduce. For example, a product with an IRB of 30 will reduce a 100 dB noise level to 70 dB. Earmuffs typically have an IRB rating of 30 dB. If you're wondering what level of BRI you'll need, it will depend on the work you're doing. For example, circular saws operate somewhere in the 90 dB range. To bring that level down to the accepted safety level of 70 dB and below, you'll need hearing protection with an NRR of 20 or higher. To get an idea, here are some tools and the decibels they create:
An earplug has an IRB rating of 33 dB. If you have really noise-sensitive ears that can handle this kind of tool, combining your noise-canceling headphones with an earplug may be a good idea to keep the noise level as low as possible. In fact, you can "create" an IRB of 36 dB.
Temperature and humidity have less to do with effectiveness and everything to do with comfort. Because of the nature of hearing protection products, they are not breathable and can trap body heat. And this can be a major problem with earmuffs since they tend to retain body heat, both in the shell and the headband (especially when worn around the neck). The thick foam and airtight liner do not allow the helmet to breathe. This can be especially uncomfortable in non-air-conditioned spaces like workshops or garages. Be sure to check this when purchasing.
While the ability to hear your surroundings may seem odd in an article about hearing protection, situational awareness can be just as important to staying safe when you're on a job site. If you are working with others, being able to hear and understand them can help increase your workflow and keep you safe.
Music can increase your workflow and helps some people focus on the task at hand. Noise-canceling headphones with a Bluetooth option can help you satisfy both your need for safety and your quest for productivity.
Personal protective equipment (PPE) is extremely important for many reasons, but these parts are not always compatible with your earmuffs. In fact, your respirator may not be compatible with it, mainly because of the neck straps and harness. Also, the safety glasses that must fit under the sleeves will create a gap for noise to creep in, reducing the effective IRB rating of your helmet. Consider this when purchasing.
Noise cancellation is nothing more than the reduction of external noise to either protect your ears or to allow you to hear clearly what you are listening to. There are two types of noise reduction: active noise reduction (ANC) and passive noise reduction. Active noise reduction involves electronics and power sources, while passive noise reduction requires the use of various materials.
Active noise cancellation can handle low frequency sounds, while passive noise cancellation is suitable for high frequency sounds. In addition, active noise cancellation involves sound wave cancellation, while passive noise cancellation involves sound wave isolation.
The main advantage of an active noise cancelling device is that it can handle everyday noise: with one, you can have peace in a crowded space, for example. While passive noise cancelling headsets are able to handle more aggressive noises, in a work environment for example.
For working in a noisy environment, headphones with passive noise cancellation and a BRI rating. Headphones or earphones with active noise cancellation (ANC) only somewhat reduce midrange noise (which are much more aggressive, though). These devices do not have IRB and are not designed for hearing protection in a work environment. While they generally cost as much, if not more, than IRB rated headsets.
The "Single Number Rating," or SNR for short, is the EU standard for showing the attenuation of hearing protection. SNR is used more frequently in the UK, although you'll often see an IRB number (NNR: Noise Reduction rating) instead on products imported from the US. Kind of like the Fahrenheit/Celsius difference for the unit of temperature measurement.
The SNR provides a rough estimate of the noise reduction offered by hearing protection products in decibels. For example, an SNR of 20 corresponds to about a 20-decibel reduction in the noise you hear.
The most obvious difference between SNR and IRB ratings is that SNR ratings tend to be a few decibels higher. There is no exact formula for converting IRB to SNR, but SNR ratings tend to be about 3 dB higher, so a product with anIRB of 30 will have an SNR of about 33.
In effect, the two ratings are determined by following different testing procedures.
This is the most basic model you can find on the market. Passive noise-canceling headphones have no built-in function to eliminate ambient noise. Noise cancellation is therefore passive and depends mainly on the quality of the material your headphones are made of. As well as criteria such as design, cushioning, padding, etc.
Passive earmuffs are made of simple shells lined with a soundproofing material. They are usually worn like any other over-the-ear headphones. They are generally more affordable than communicating earmuffs.
Communicating earmuffs do everything a passive earmuff can do, but in addition they have a built-in walkie-talkie that will allow you to easily communicate with your co-workers in even the most challenging work environments. The range of the built-in walkie talkie will depend on the quality of the headset, but some brands offer headsets that can communicate up to 1.4 km without interference.
This type of noise-canceling headset also gives you the advantage of being able to communicate while you work, so your hands are free and you're safer. Some communicating noise-canceling headsets are also equipped with a Bluetooth function that allows you to listen to the radio or your music selection while working. You can even make phone calls without ever leaving your workplace.
Earmuffs are hearing protection that allow you to protect yourself without having to slide anything inside your ear. It uses rigid headbands to hold hard shells with soft foam pads over your ears. They keep out the most aggressive noises by creating a sort of seal around your entire ear. This type of headset will protect your ears perfectly, and some models with built-in walkie talkies will allow you to work more freely while communicating with your colleagues.
If you have ever seen someone working with brightly colored dots inside their ears, they were using earplugs. These hearing protection products block noise by completely closing the ear canal, significantly reducing the decibel levels felt by your ears. The plugs are usually made of soft foam or rubber.
For soft foam plugs, you simply roll it between your fingers to compress it. Once you place them in your ears, they expand and take the shape of your ear canal to prevent excessive noise from entering. If your plugs are made of rubber, you can simply slip them into your ear canal. These plugs are more durable than foam plugs, but may not offer the same level of protection.
Earmuffs or earplugs will depend entirely on your needs, your noise tolerance level and also your budget. If you are looking for effective hearing protection on a budget, earplugs (preferably foam) will suit you. But if you're looking for something more protective, more professional and that allows you to communicate freely, look into noise-cancelling headphones: they'll cost you more, but they'll be perfect.
In our opinion, the best brands of construction noise protection helmets in 2022 are :
Peltor is a brand of the American company 3M (which is also known for its brands Scotch, Post-It, etc.). It is a brand that specialises in personal protective equipment, especially noise-cancelling headphones. Peltor has an excellent reputation and 50 years of experience. Its helmets offer a subtle blend of comfort, safety and design.
Honeywell is a very large American multinational which makes a little bit of everything: from simple fans (Honeywell home) to aeronautics (Honeywell), without forgetting the electronic equipment, the insulation systems. And of course, personal protective equipment (Honeywell Safety), including the famous Howard Leight Impact Sport ear muffs. But whatever the field, the brand has an excellent reputation and always offers the best performing products on the market. It is a reliable and efficient brand.
The ProCase brand is primarily known for its quality cases and shells, designed to protect electronic devices. But the brand also produces noise-cancelling headphones that have nothing to envy to their competitors. Solid, high performance, efficient and durable, these headsets will protect you even in the most hostile environments.
Sordin is a Swedish brand that has specialized in the production of high quality and innovative safety products for 30 years. Sordin is one of the leading manufacturers of personal protective equipment above the neck. It is best known for its noise-cancelling helmets for hunters and shooting range enthusiasts.
Mpow is a brand that specializes in the design, manufacture and distribution of all types of headphones. Its ANC headphones are particularly well known for the quality of the sounds they produce, their durability and above all their accessibility. The brand's noise-cancelling headphones also enjoy an excellent reputation: efficient, comfortable and durable, they are among the best in the business.
The diagram below will help you to get an idea of the typical prices for each price range (entry-level, mid-range and high-end).
However, more expensive does not necessarily mean better.
We therefore advise you to always consult our ranking before deciding, rather than blindly relying on price ranges.
Choose brightly coloured noise-cancelling headphones
Brightly colored earmuffs will be more visible and allow others to see you better on a job site. This is very useful for contractors or those who work in construction.
Don't hesitate to combine the available hearing protectors
For added protection, feel free to use earplugs and noise-canceling headphones at the same time. This combination will allow you to achieve a BRI level of 36 dB, which is especially useful if you have to work with very noisy machinery all day.
Choose a foldable earmuff
For convenience, go for foldable headphones. This type of headset is more compact, easier to store, and therefore easier to transport as well.
Choose a comfortable helmet
If your headset is uncomfortable, you may not put it on or take it off during the day and therefore expose yourself to noise. To avoid this, favor helmets with large, padded shells that act as protective ear cushions. Also, choose a helmet with an adjustable headband: it should easily fit any size head.
Don't hesitate to use your helmet outside the work site
To get the most out of your noise-canceling helmet, don't hesitate to use it, even off the job. To mow your lawn, for example, or to do minor DIY work around the house. This way, you'll have good hearing protection, no matter what you're doing.
The widely accepted safe decibel level is below 70 dB. Above 70 dB, you should consider wearing hearing protection to reduce your risk of damaging your hearing.
The top-rated noise-cancelling headphones on the market generally have an IRB rating of 31 dB. But even this level is rare, with only a few truly reputable brands producing headphones with an IRB (or SNR) of 31 dB or higher. The most common IRB level is 30 dB. In comparison, the highest rated earplugs can reach 33 dB. This is because earplugs, when optimally inserted, can achieve higher noise reduction at lower frequencies.
In-ear hearing protectors are better at reducing noise. But really, it depends on how comfortable you are. It doesn't matter if earplugs offer better protection: if they are uncomfortable for you, you won't wear them and you won't have protection anyway.
No. To protect your ears on a construction site, nothing beats a noise-cancelling helmet with IRB. ANC helmets do not have an IRB and will not work in a harsh work environment.
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