Under development - Hearing protection devices

This PCR is currently being developed.

The development of this PCR was initiated 2023-11-17. Open consultation of the draft PCR i took place 2024-12-13 until 2025-02-11. Now the PCR is being updated based on the open consultation comments received.

The publication is expected in June 2025. Dates are preliminary and subject to change.

Please contact the PCR moderator Paolo Simon Ostan if you want to engage in the PCR development process, for example join the PCR Committee or be invited to the open consultation. You may also contact the PCR Moderator if you have any questions on the PCR.

For general questions about PCR development, please contact the Secretariat at

This document will provide Product Category Rules (PCR) for the assessment of the environmental performance of hearing protection devices and the declaration of this performance by an EPD.

Hearing protection devices (HPDs) are a type of personal protective equipment intended to reduce hazardous and/or nuisance sound. They can be worn over the ears or in the ears. HPDs can reduce noise using passive, electronic, or a combination of passive and electronic means. There are different categories of HPDs that includes earmuffs and earplugs. Earmuffs can be worn over-the-head, behind- the head or attached to head protection and/or face protection. Disposable, reusable, and custom-molded earplugs are included in the scope of the PCR.

All types of HPDs are covered by this PCR, except acoustic helmets and products worn for comfort reason (e.g., commercially available for travel purposes).

There is no applicable UN CPC code for the product category.

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