Explore Our Knowledge Base of Compliance and Safety Issues
NRR Ratings Explained: What the Numbers on Your Ear Plugs Actually Mean
NRR 27, NRR 33, SNR 34: what do these numbers mean and how much protection do you actually get? A plain-language guide to hearing protection ratings.
Why I Built Safety Glasses with Built-in Ear Plugs
Jim Duffy is the founder of ReadyMax and the inventor of the SoundShield integrated hearing protection system. He holds multiple international patents for retractable tethered hearing protection technology. ReadyMax started because the safety industry ignored human nature. Workers skip hearing protection because friction kills compliance. Foam plugs get lost, collect
The Definitive Guide to Retractable Hearing Protection
Not sure which ReadyMax product fits your job? We break down every option, from safety glasses with built-in ear plugs to hard hat retractors, so you can pick the right one.
Foreign Object Debris Introduction
Foreign object debris (F.O.D.) is any object, material or substance in a place that it is not supposed to be creating a condition that can cause damage to individuals or equipment. Foreign Object Damage (also FOD) is the damage caused by Foreign Object Debris.
Common Hearing Protection Mistakes
Noise Induced Hearing Loss (NIHL) is a progressive, debilitating and preventable condition. While every effort to protect yourself can be made, here are some common hearing protection mistakes. Ignoring the problem How many times have we seen children covering their ears around loud sounds, while adults blissfully absorb the full
PE Foam Earplugs: An Environmental Disaster
Millions of American workers use and discard polyurethane foam earplugs every day believing that they are doing what is in the best interest of their health. While the use of this product is highly beneficial for a person’s hearing health, the discarded PU foam plugs ultimately become a serious health
RECENT POSTS
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Why I Built Safety Glasses with Built-in Ear Plugs
February 15, 2026 -
The Definitive Guide to Retractable Hearing Protection
February 11, 2026
