Vibes Hi-Fidelity Earplugs provide an average decibel reduction of 22dB and have a Noise Reduction Rating (NRR) of 15dB. The NRR is a unit of measurement that is used to determine
the effectiveness of hearing protection that takes into account multiple factors, including hedging for human error. The NRR for hearing protection is lower than the average decibel reduction because NRR takes into account outside factors like improper insertion of the earplugs into the ear. The NRR is listed on our packaging so that people are aware of what volume reduction the earplugs will provide, even if they are not inserted into the ears properly.
In short, both numbers are representing the same level of protection, but they are two different calculations. The calculation of 22dB is the average reduction of decibels across 0hz 8000hz frequencies. This means that Vibes reduce the decibel levels of your environment by an average of 22dB across frequencies. Noise Reduction Rating (NRR) is a unit of measurement used to determine the effectiveness of hearing protection and takes into account multiple factors, including hedging for human error. The NRR for hearing protection is lower than the average decibel reduction because NRR takes into account outside factors like improper insertion of the earplugs into the ear. The government requires hearing protection companies to list the NRR on the packaging so that people are aware of what volume reduction the earplugs will provide, even if they are not inserted into the ears properly. If the earplugs are inserted properly, you'll get the full 22dB in reduction.