Electronic hearing protective devices are mainly developed to assist in protecting the inner ear from direct exposure to loud noise. Most often, electronic hearing protection devices simply cover the outer ear region with appropriate earplugs or cushions of the device and provide the seal for the outer ear with appropriate cushions or liners. The wearer is able to maintain full reception of external sounds in normal situations. For those who have severe allergies to noise or dust, electronic hearing protection devices may be required. The devices are available for individuals above the age of eighteen years, while the most common types include the "over-the-counter" type that can be bought without a prescription from any doctor, and the more sophisticated "intra-oral" type, which are administered by specially trained health care professionals.
Generally, those suffering from noise-induced hearing loss suffer since their ears become too sensitive to outside noise or the surrounding area. It can happen at any point along the hearing pathway: the inner ear, the middle ear, the outer ear, or the brain. One of the causes of this condition is a build-up of wax in the auditory canal. When not treated, it may lead to eventual damage and/or hearing loss. Most likely, one of the first steps in dealing with this is to wear appropriate protective equipment, such as earplugs and other Noise Reduction Devices, when exposed to loud noises for a long period of time. For instance, in September 2020, the advanced communication solutions developing company, Cardo Crew, launched Mesh Communication Technology for PPE makers and the construction workers in the U.K. to avoid the occurrence of hearing problems.
Earmuffs and earplugs are some of the electronic hearing protection devices used today. These are custom-made earpieces with cushions inside to keep the ear canal free from wax and dirt. They can either be worn in the ears or else be worn over the ears. They are perfect for individuals working in industrial or manufacturing environments where noise can be loud and constant. Earmuffs are perfect for railroad workers who need to keep their ears protected from the grinding noise of the wheels on the train tracks, as well as those in aviation who have to wear protective devices while in flight.