PSA: Don't Skip the Ear Protection with Your Air Compressor!

Just a friendly reminder for all you DIYers out there. I was running my compressor all day on a job site, and by the end, my ears were ringing like crazy. Even with the door closed, that thing is loud. I always wear ear muffs now, but I see too many guys on here not using any PPE. Trust me, your future self will thank you. Anyone else have any close calls with compressor noise?

Great point, Mike. I learned that lesson the hard way years ago. Now I keep a pair of those foam earplugs in my toolbox as a backup. They're cheap and easy to stash. Even when I'm just topping off a tire, I pop 'em in. It's not just the compressor itself, but the nailers and impact wrenches too. All that air pressure release is like a gunshot. Protect your ears!

Heh, I'm guilty of this too. I usually just wear my shooting muffs when I'm in the garage. But I got to ask - any of you guys use ear buds with noise protection? I'm thinking of getting those electronic ones that let you hear normal conversation but block loud noises. Are they worth it for shop use?

Sam, those electronic muffs are awesome. I have a pair of 3M Peltor ones for when I'm doing inspections on loud sites. They're a bit pricey but they're comfortable and you don't miss out on anything. As for the original tip - absolutely. Not just for ears either. Safety glasses are a must when you're dealing with blowout hoses. I've seen a guy get a face full of debris from a faulty fitting. Stay safe, folks!

Good insight, Dan. And thanks for the heads up on the glasses. I'll add that to my routine. I actually use a pair of clear safety glasses even when I'm just filling up a tank. You never know when a line might burst. On the electronic muffs - I'm thinking of getting those too. I'll second that recommendation, Sam.