Ear protection

[skhosla at neutraldata.com (Sameer Khosla)]

For years we have used the Peltor/3M Bluetooth headsets in the datacenter.  Proper hearing protection and noise cancelling mic, with the added bonus of protecting my head a bit when I am up on the ladder in the DC and can easily bang into potentially sharp things.  http://goo.gl/ShTCEF

They are about $375-$450ish retail, we picked some up on ebay in around $200 brand new.  We have about 6 pairs that so far have lasted 8-9+ years with no problems.

The only major suggestion if you are going to use them on a regular basis is to get the gel earcup replacements.  These seem to be about $60ish.

Sk.

-----Original Message-----
From: NANOG [mailto:nanog-bounces at nanog.org] On Behalf Of Nick Hilliard
Sent: Wednesday, September 23, 2015 5:34 AM
To: nanog at nanog.org
Subject: Ear protection

What are people using for ear protection for datacenters these days?  I'm down to my last couple of corded 3M 1110:

http://www.shop3m.com/3m-corded-earplugs-hearing-conservation-1110.html

These work reasonably well in practice, with a rated nominal noise reduction rate of 29dB.  Some people find them uncomfortable, but they work well for me.

There are other ear plugs with rated NRR of up to 32-33dB.  Anyone have any opinions on what brands work well for them?

Nick