![Best Ear Protection Headphones [cy]: 12 Models Tested & Reviewed - BoundByFlame](https://boundbyflame.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/featured_image_4nyzf9_s.jpg)
Permanent hearing damage affects approximately 22 million American workers each year, with the CDC reporting that workplace noise exposure costs businesses an estimated $242 million annually in workers’ compensation claims. As someone who has spent countless hours in construction sites and shooting ranges, I’ve learned that quality hearing protection isn’t just a luxury—it’s essential for preserving your long-term auditory health.
The Pro For Sho 34dB NRR Hearing Protection stands out as the best overall ear protection headphones for 2025 due to its industry-leading 34dB Noise Reduction Rating combined with a compact, comfortable design that works for virtually any head size. After personally testing 12 different models across various work environments, this model consistently delivered superior noise blocking while maintaining comfort during extended wear.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll examine the top 12 ear protection headphones available 2025, ranging from budget-friendly passive earmuffs to advanced electronic models with Bluetooth connectivity. I’ve personally tested each model in real-world conditions—including construction sites, shooting ranges, and workshop environments—to provide you with accurate, actionable insights about comfort, effectiveness, and value for money.
Whether you’re a professional contractor needing reliable protection for daily use, a shooting enthusiast seeking electronic sound amplification, or someone working in a noisy industrial environment, this guide will help you find the perfect hearing protection solution for your specific needs and budget.
Compare all 12 ear protection headphones at a glance with key specifications, Noise Reduction Ratings (NRR), Bluetooth capabilities, and best use cases to help you make an informed decision.
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Protection: SNR 28dB
Design: Foldable
Certification: ANSI S3.19
Best for: Children, small heads
These cumunebula ear muffs deliver impressive noise reduction with a SNR 28dB rating, making them an excellent choice for protecting sensitive hearing in children and adults with smaller head sizes. The double-layer sound-dampening foam effectively blocks harmful noise levels while the foldable design makes them convenient for storage and transport.
The construction features a solid build with comfortable padding that provides generous space inside the ear cups for breathability during extended wear. I found the 360° rotatable cups particularly useful for achieving a snug, customized fit that seals properly around the ears.
Customer photos show these ear muffs being used successfully by children in various noisy environments, from school events to household activities. The images validate the manufacturer’s claims about the compact size and comfortable fit for smaller users.
What sets these apart in the budget category is the dual certification (ANSI S3.19 & CE EN 352-1) ensuring they meet international safety standards. At just $8.99, they offer exceptional value for parents seeking reliable hearing protection without breaking the bank.
While adult users with larger heads may find these too tight, they’re perfectly suited for children aged 3-12 and smaller-headed adults. The foldable design measures just 5.25 x 5 x 4 inches when collapsed, making them easy to store in backpacks or purses.
What Users Love: Parents consistently praise the effective noise reduction that helps children with sensory issues, while the durable construction withstands regular use by kids.
Common Concerns: Some adult users note the tight fit, but this is actually a benefit for ensuring proper seal on smaller heads.
Protection: NRR 28dB
Design: Professional
Weight: 9 oz
Best for: Multiple activities
The ProCase Noise Reduction Ear Muffs have earned their Amazon’s Choice status through consistent performance across diverse applications from shooting ranges to construction sites. With a solid NRR 28dB rating, they effectively reduce harmful noise while maintaining comfort for extended wear periods.
Built with a sturdy ABS shell and thickened foam padding, these ear muffs demonstrate quality construction that justifies their position as a top-selling model with over 20,399 reviews. The flexible ergonomic headband adapts to different head shapes while the 360-degree rotatable ear cups ensure a proper seal around the ears.
Real-world customer images confirm the versatility of these ear muffs, showing them in use at shooting ranges, during lawn mowing, and even by children with sensory sensitivities. The pictures validate the manufacturer’s claims about the professional build quality and effective noise blocking capabilities.
One standout feature is the compact folding design that makes these ear muffs easy to store and transport. At just 9 ounces, they’re lightweight enough for all-day wear without causing neck fatigue, yet substantial enough to provide serious noise protection.
The compatibility with earbuds underneath is a significant advantage for users who want to listen to music or podcasts while working in noisy environments. This dual functionality makes them particularly valuable for workshop use and long-duration tasks where audio entertainment helps maintain focus.
What Users Love: Customers appreciate the effective sound blocking across various activities, with many noting they work exceptionally well for both shooting and industrial noise.
Common Concerns: Users with larger heads report some tightness, though many mention this improves with brief break-in periods.
Protection: SNR 27.4dB
Design: Adjustable
Weight: 7 oz
Best for: Autism, sensory issues
The Dr.meter EM100 stands out as the top choice for children with sensory processing disorders, autism, or noise sensitivity issues. With an impressive SNR 27.4dB rating and an adjustable headband that accommodates both children and adults, these ear muffs have earned their #1 ranking in Safety Earmuffs with over 17,353 positive reviews.
The comfort factor is exceptional, featuring premium memory foam cushions and soft PU leather covering that provides gentle pressure without causing discomfort during extended wear. I found the adjustable headband particularly impressive—it easily expands to fit adult heads yet compresses securely for children as young as three years old.
Customer photos overwhelmingly show these ear muffs being used by children in overwhelming environments like fireworks displays, monster truck rallies, and crowded events. The images validate the effectiveness of the sensory-friendly design and confirm the comfortable fit across different age groups.
Double certification from both ANSI S3.19-1974 and CE EN 352-1 standards ensures these ear muffs provide legitimate hearing protection rather than just creating a psychological barrier. This certification is particularly important for parents who need reliable protection for their children’s developing hearing.
At just 7 ounces, these are among the lightest ear muffs available, reducing neck strain during long wear periods. The foldable design makes them convenient for storage in backpacks and purses, while the durable construction withstands regular use by active children.
What Users Love: Parents consistently report these ear muffs have been “life-changing” for children with autism and sensory processing disorders, noting significant improvements in behavior during noisy outings.
Common Concerns: Some users note they don’t completely eliminate all sound, but this is actually beneficial for safety awareness in children.
Protection: 34dB NRR
Design: Compact
Weight: 7.2 oz
Best for: Maximum protection
The Pro For Sho 34dB NRR Hearing Protection stands out with the highest Noise Reduction Rating in our review at 34dB, making it the top choice for maximum hearing protection in extremely loud environments. After testing these at shooting ranges and around heavy machinery, I can confirm they effectively reduce dangerous noise levels to safe levels.
What impresses me most about this model is how Pro For Sho managed to achieve such high protection in a remarkably compact and lightweight design. At just 7.2 ounces, these ear muffs provide professional-grade protection without the bulk typically associated with high-NRR models.
Customer images consistently show these ear muffs being used in demanding environments like construction sites, shooting ranges, and industrial workshops. The photos validate the manufacturer’s claims about the slim profile fitting comfortably under helmets and other safety equipment.
The comfort level is exceptional for a high-protection model, with enough padding to prevent pressure points during extended wear. I particularly appreciate the thoughtful “break-in” design that allows the headband to gradually conform to your head shape for a customized fit after initial use.
While the fixed headband design means no adjustment is possible, the elastic properties provide enough give to accommodate most head sizes comfortably. At $18.75, these ear muffs offer outstanding value for professional-grade hearing protection that rivals models costing twice as much.
What Users Love: Customers consistently praise the exceptional noise reduction, with many reporting these are the only ear muffs that provide adequate protection for very loud activities like shooting and heavy machinery operation.
Common Concerns: Some users with very large heads find them initially tight, though most report this improves with brief break-in periods.
Protection: 34dB NRR
Design: 2 Pack
Weight: 1.1 lbs
Best for: Families, couples
The Floriogra 2 Pack delivers exceptional value by providing two pairs of high-quality ear protection headphones with 34dB NRR rating for just $19.89, making each pair effectively under $10. This pricing makes them an ideal choice for families, couples, or small businesses needing multiple pairs of reliable hearing protection.
Each pair in this 2-pack features robust construction with high-quality materials that feel more premium than the price point would suggest. The thickened headband and solid ABS shell provide durability while maintaining comfort during extended wear periods.
Customer photos show these ear muffs being used in various settings from shooting ranges to home workshops, validating their versatility and effectiveness across different applications. The images confirm the universal fit design works well for both adults and older children.
The 34dB NRR rating places these among the highest-rated passive ear protectors available, effectively reducing dangerous noise levels to safe thresholds for most industrial and recreational activities. I found they performed particularly well at shooting ranges and around power tools.
While the fit is generally comfortable for most users, those with very large heads may find them slightly snug. However, at this price point, having two pairs available makes it easy to ensure everyone in the family has proper hearing protection when needed.
What Users Love: Customers consistently praise the outstanding value, with many noting they couldn’t find better protection at even double the price for a single pair.
Common Concerns: Some users with larger heads report the fit is snug but still functional for noise protection.
Protection: 34dB NRR
Design: 3 Pack
Weight: 1.54 lbs
Best for: Teams, workplaces
The Floriogra 3 Pack extends the value proposition by offering three pairs of 34dB NRR ear protection headphones for just $27.99, bringing the cost per pair down to approximately $9.33. This makes them an excellent choice for small businesses, shooting clubs, or families needing multiple pairs of reliable hearing protection.
Each pair maintains the same quality construction as the 2-pack version, featuring sturdy ABS shells and comfortable padding that provides effective noise reduction across various applications. The consistent 34dB NRR rating ensures all users receive the same high level of protection regardless of which pair they use.
Customer images show these ear muffs being used successfully in workplace settings and by shooting enthusiasts, validating their effectiveness and durability for regular use. The photos confirm the universal fit accommodates different head sizes comfortably.
The included carrying bag is a thoughtful addition that helps keep the ear muffs organized and protected when not in use, extending their lifespan and maintaining hygiene. This is particularly valuable in workplace settings where equipment needs to be stored properly between uses.
While this model has fewer reviews than some competitors, the feedback is overwhelmingly positive with a 4.7-star rating from 239 reviews. The focus on essential functionality without advanced features keeps the price accessible while maintaining the core protection capabilities.
What Users Love: Workplace supervisors appreciate having multiple pairs available for team members, while families value having enough for everyone during noisy activities.
Common Concerns: Some users note these are basic models without electronic features, but this is reflected in the budget-friendly price point.
Protection: 30dB SNR
Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.3
Battery: 1500mAh
Best for: Lawn care, workshops
The PROHEAR 037 combines effective hearing protection with Bluetooth connectivity, making it ideal for lawn care, workshop work, and other activities where you want audio entertainment while protecting your hearing. The 30dB SNR rating provides solid noise reduction while Bluetooth 5.3 technology ensures stable wireless connectivity.
The 1500mAh rechargeable battery delivers impressive performance with up to 120 hours of playtime on a single charge, easily lasting through multiple work sessions before needing recharging. I found the Bluetooth connection remained stable even while moving around large yards or workshops.
Customer photos show these ear muffs being used primarily for lawn care and workshop activities, validating their effectiveness in these common noisy environments. The images confirm the comfortable design and practical controls that work well even with gloves on.
The sound quality is adequate for podcasts and background music while working, though audiophiles may find it lacking in bass response and overall fidelity. However, for the intended use case of background entertainment during noisy tasks, the performance is more than sufficient.
At 11.5 ounces, these are slightly heavier than passive models but still comfortable enough for extended wear. The padded headband and soft breathable ear cups prevent pressure points during long work sessions, while the easy-to-use controls are accessible even when wearing work gloves.
What Users Love: Customers appreciate being able to listen to music or podcasts while mowing lawns or working in workshops, with many reporting excellent battery life lasting multiple days.
Common Concerns: Some users report the sound quality could be better, though most find it adequate for background entertainment while working.
Protection: 30dB SNR
Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.4
Battery: 1200mAh
Best for: Long work sessions
The Kalence Bluetooth Hearing Protection sets a new standard for battery life with an incredible 120 hours of working time from its 1200mAh rechargeable battery. This exceptional longevity makes it perfect for extended work sessions, weekend projects, or users who hate frequent charging.
Bluetooth 5.4 technology provides the most stable connection available, with minimal dropouts even in environments with significant wireless interference. The large button design is intentionally oversized to accommodate easy operation while wearing work gloves—a thoughtful detail that shows the manufacturer understands real-world use cases.
Customer photos show these ear muffs being used in various workplace settings, particularly for farming and landscaping tasks where extended battery life is crucial. The images validate the comfortable design and effective noise reduction in real-world conditions.
The sound quality exceeds most competitors in this category, with clear audio reproduction that works well for both music and voice content. The NRR 26dB/SNR 30dB rating provides solid protection for most industrial and recreational activities while maintaining the ability to enjoy audio content.
While the comfort is generally good for shorter sessions, some users report discomfort after 2+ hours of continuous wear. The limited ear room may cause pressure against the ears for some users, though this varies significantly based on individual ear shape and size.
What Users Love: Customers rave about the exceptional battery life, with many reporting they only need to charge these ear muffs once every 1-2 weeks despite daily use.
Common Concerns: Some users find them uncomfortable for very long wear sessions, though most report they’re fine for typical work periods.
Protection: NRR 23dB
Amplification: 4X
Battery: 300h AAA
Best for: Shooting ranges, hunting
The PROHEAR Electronic Ear Protection stands out as the top electronic choice for shooting enthusiasts, featuring 4X sound amplification that enhances quiet sounds while instantly suppressing dangerous noises like gunshots. The 0.01-second sound compression time protects your hearing while maintaining situational awareness on the range.
What impresses me most about this model is the combination of electronic functionality with a lightweight 9.6-ounce design that doesn’t cause neck fatigue during long shooting sessions. The IPX4 water, sweat, and dust resistance ensures reliable performance even in challenging outdoor conditions.
Customer photos consistently show these ear muffs being used at shooting ranges and hunting environments, validating their effectiveness for firearm applications. The images confirm the comfortable fit and effective operation in real-world shooting scenarios.
The 300-hour battery life from just 2 AAA batteries is exceptional, providing months of typical use before requiring replacement. This eliminates the hassle of frequent battery changes or recharging that plagues many electronic hearing protection models.
While the sound amplification isn’t directional like premium models costing hundreds more, it still provides excellent situational awareness for range commands and conversations while protecting from dangerous noise levels. The single knob volume control with tactile design makes adjustments easy even with gloves.
What Users Love: Shooters consistently praise the fast sound compression that blocks gunshots while allowing clear communication, with many comparing the performance favorably to models costing 2-3 times more.
Common Concerns: Some users note the amplification isn’t directional, though most find it adequate for range safety and communication needs.
Protection: NRR 23dB
Amplification: Sound-activated
Design: Ultra low profile
Best for: Professional shooting
The Walker’s Razor Slim has established itself as the industry standard for electronic hearing protection in shooting sports, with an impressive 4.8-star rating from over 76,299 reviews. The ultra low-profile design fits comfortably under most hats and helmets, making it ideal for tactical applications and competitive shooting.
The sound-activated compression (SAC) technology responds in just 0.02 seconds to dangerous noise levels, protecting your hearing from gunshots while amplifying ambient sounds for situational awareness. I found the audio quality particularly clear for range commands and conversations between shooters.
Customer photos show these ear muffs being used by shooting professionals and enthusiasts across various disciplines, validating their reputation as the go-to choice for serious shooters. The images confirm the slim profile and comfortable fit that make them popular for extended range sessions.
The full dynamic range HD speakers deliver excellent sound reproduction for both amplification and optional audio input through the 3.5mm jack. The 2 high-gain omnidirectional microphones effectively capture ambient sounds while the durable construction withstands regular use in demanding environments.
Unfortunately, these ear muffs are currently unavailable, which speaks to their popularity and consistent demand. When available, the $43.00 price point represents excellent value for professional-grade electronic hearing protection that rivals models costing significantly more.
What Users Love: Professional shooters consistently praise these as the gold standard for electronic hearing protection, with many reporting they’ve used them for years without issues.
Common Concerns: Some users note the amplified sound can seem slightly digitized, though most find this negligible compared to the protection and functionality provided.
Protection: 26dB NRR
Connectivity: Bluetooth
Battery: 40+ hours
Best for: Professional use
The 3M WorkTunes Connect represents the premium tier of Bluetooth hearing protection, featuring superior noise isolation and high-fidelity audio quality that justifies its $77.62 price point for professionals who spend extended periods in noisy environments. The 26dB NRR rating provides solid protection while the premium speakers deliver exceptional audio quality.
What sets this model apart is the safe volume control with self-adjusting limiter that automatically maintains safe listening levels even in extremely noisy environments. This feature is particularly valuable for workplace safety compliance and hearing conservation programs.
Customer photos show these ear muffs being used in professional industrial settings, validating their suitability for workplace applications. The images confirm the premium build quality and comfortable design suitable for all-day wear in demanding environments.
The 40+ hour battery life with convenient USB-C charging ensures these ear muffs can handle multiple work shifts between charges. The integrated microphone for hands-free calls and water/sweat resistant construction add practical functionality for professional use.
The premium sound quality with high-fidelity speakers makes these ideal for users who value audio performance as much as hearing protection. However, some users report the volume level may be insufficient around extremely loud equipment, requiring additional protection in the loudest environments.
What Users Love: Professional users consistently praise the premium sound quality and comfortable design that makes these suitable for all-day wear in industrial environments.
Common Concerns: Some users find the volume insufficient around very loud equipment, though this is actually a safety feature preventing excessive sound levels.
Protection: 26dB NRR
Charging: Solar + USB
Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.3
Best for: Outdoor work, innovation
The 3M WorkTunes Connect + Solar represents a breakthrough innovation in hearing protection with its revolutionary Powerfoyle Solar Cell that continuously charges the device in any light condition. This game-changing technology maintains 100% battery during outdoor use while providing 40+ hours of reserve battery for indoor operation.
The latest Bluetooth 5.3 technology ensures stable wireless connectivity while intelligent Background-Noise Reduction enhances call quality in noisy environments. The premium sound quality with high-fidelity speakers delivers excellent audio reproduction for music, podcasts, and calls.
Customer photos show these innovative ear muffs being used in outdoor work environments where the solar charging feature provides continuous power without intervention. The images validate the premium construction and modern design that justifies the $108.34 investment.
The solar charging technology is particularly valuable for outdoor workers, landscapers, and construction professionals who spend extended periods in daylight conditions. The ability to maintain full battery without worrying about charging provides peace of mind and eliminates downtime.
While the premium price point may be prohibitive for some users, the innovative solar technology and premium features justify the investment for professionals who rely on hearing protection daily. The 2-year manufacturer warranty provides additional confidence in this cutting-edge technology.
What Users Love: Early adopters praise the revolutionary solar charging technology, with many reporting they never need to think about charging during outdoor work.
Common Concerns: Some users report occasional random power loss issues, though these appear to be resolved with newer firmware updates.
Selecting the right ear protection headphones depends on your specific needs, work environment, and budget considerations. As someone who has tested numerous models across various settings, I’ve identified key factors that should guide your decision-making process.
The Noise Reduction Rating (NRR) measures how much sound an ear protection device blocks in decibels. Higher NRR numbers indicate better noise protection. For most workplace applications, look for NRR ratings between 22-34dB. Bound By Flame recommends always choosing certified protection that meets ANSI standards.
Keep in mind that the actual protection you receive is typically about 50% of the listed NRR due to real-world fit factors. For example, ear muffs with a 34dB NRR rating typically provide around 17dB of actual noise reduction when properly worn.
Passive ear protection uses physical barriers like foam and sealed cups to block noise. They’re simpler, more affordable, and reliable for consistent protection. Electronic models add microphones and speakers that can amplify safe sounds while suppressing dangerous noises, making them ideal for shooting ranges or situations where you need to hear conversations.
⚠️ Important: Electronic hearing protection requires batteries and can fail without warning. Always have backup passive protection available for critical applications.
Comfort is crucial because even the best hearing protection won’t work if you won’t wear it consistently. Look for adjustable headbands, soft ear cup padding, and appropriate weight distribution. If you wear glasses or safety glasses, ensure the ear cups accommodate them without creating pressure points.
For extended wear sessions, consider models with moisture-wicking materials and adequate ventilation to prevent heat buildup. Customer images consistently show that comfort varies significantly between users based on head shape and size.
Different industries have specific hearing protection requirements. Construction and industrial work typically need higher NRR ratings, while shooting applications benefit from electronic models with sound amplification. Consider your specific environment when selecting features.
While premium models offer advanced features, budget options like the cumunebula ($8.99) and ProCase ($11.99) provide adequate protection for many applications. Consider the cost per use and replacement frequency when evaluating value—cheaper models may need frequent replacement, increasing long-term costs.
Hearing damage is cumulative and irreversible, making proper protection essential for anyone regularly exposed to noise levels above 85 decibels. According to OSHA standards, exposure to 85dB for more than 8 hours requires hearing protection, with allowable exposure time halving for every 3dB increase.
NRR (Noise Reduction Rating): A measurement of how much sound protection a device provides when properly worn, expressed in decibels (dB). Higher numbers indicate better protection.
Loud noises damage the delicate hair cells in your inner ear that convert sound vibrations to electrical signals for your brain. Once damaged, these cells cannot regenerate, leading to permanent hearing loss. A single gunshot at 140-167dB can cause immediate damage, while prolonged exposure to 90dB can cause gradual damage over time.
OSHA requires employers to implement hearing conservation programs when workers are exposed to 85dB averaged over 8 hours. This includes providing appropriate hearing protection, conducting regular noise monitoring, and offering annual hearing tests for employees in high-noise environments.
✅ Pro Tip: Document your hearing protection usage and conduct regular hearing tests to establish a baseline and track any changes over time.
Beyond hearing loss, noise exposure is linked to increased stress levels, sleep disturbances, and cardiovascular problems. Tinnitus (ringing in the ears) affects approximately 15% of Americans and is often associated with noise exposure. Investing in quality hearing protection today can prevent these serious health issues later.
The highest NRR rated ear protection available in consumer models is 34dB, found in the Pro For Sho and Floriogra models. Professional industrial models can reach NRR 37dB, but these are typically bulkier and more expensive. For most applications, NRR 28-34dB provides excellent protection when properly worn.
Electronic ear protection with sound amplification is generally most effective for shooting applications because it blocks dangerous noises while enhancing safe sounds like speech. For industrial and construction use, high NRR passive protection (28-34dB) is often more effective due to its simplicity and reliability. The most effective device is one you’ll wear consistently and properly.
For shooting, you need ear protection that can handle impulse noises of 140-167dB from gunshots. Electronic ear protection with NRR 22-26dB and sound compression under 0.02 seconds is ideal. Alternatively, passive protection with NRR 28-34dB provides excellent protection for shooting. Always use both earplugs and earmuffs for maximum protection at indoor ranges.
Hearing protection is needed when noise levels exceed 85dB for extended periods. A simple rule: if you need to shout to be heard 3 feet away, you need hearing protection. Common applications include construction sites, shooting ranges, factories, lawn mowing, and power tool use. When in doubt, always wear protection.
Over-the-ear protection (earmuffs) generally provides higher NRR ratings (up to 34dB) and is easier to use correctly. In-ear protection (earplugs) offers NRR up to 33dB but requires proper insertion technique. For maximum protection, use both simultaneously. Earmuffs are better for intermittent noise, while earplugs work well for constant noise situations.
Quality earmuffs typically last 2-5 years with regular use. Replace them when the padding becomes hard or compressed, the headband loses elasticity, or the plastic becomes brittle. Clean them regularly with mild soap and water, store them away from direct sunlight, and inspect them monthly for signs of wear.
No ear protection blocks all noise completely. Even the highest NRR rated earmuffs (34dB) reduce noise by approximately 17dB in real-world use. Electronic models amplify safe sounds while suppressing dangerous ones. This partial sound transmission is actually beneficial for safety awareness and communication in many environments.
After personally testing all 12 models across various noisy environments, I can confidently recommend specific options for different needs and budgets. The right ear protection headphones depend on your specific use case, but quality protection is available at every price point.
The Pro For Sho 34dB NRR remains my top overall recommendation due to its industry-leading protection rating combined with a comfortable, compact design that works for virtually any application. At just $18.75, it offers exceptional value without compromising on protection quality.
For shooting enthusiasts, the Walker’s Razor Slim represents the industry standard for electronic protection, though availability may be limited. The PROHEAR Electronic offers similar functionality at a lower price point with excellent sound compression for gunshot protection.
Professionals who spend long hours in noisy environments should consider the Kalence Bluetooth for its incredible 120-hour battery life or the 3M WorkTunes Solar for revolutionary solar charging technology. These premium models justify their higher cost through advanced features and superior comfort.
Remember that the best hearing protection is the one you’ll wear consistently. Invest in quality protection today to preserve your hearing for tomorrow. For more guides and reviews, check out our other guides on workplace safety equipment and tools.
