We sure have an awful lot to worry about these days. It seems if it isn’t a toy with lead then it’s something else going down on the list of “scary substances.” Radon, mold, free radicals, UV rays… scary world!

One of the latest hot topics in the world of “what man-made thing” to avoid is PVC or polyvinyl chloride, and being a highly popular plastic, it is tough to avoid. You can find PVC in pipes, siding, roofing and a number of other plastic products.

Is the harm in touching the PVC or the damage it may incur over years of exposure? Not necessarily. The real problem is in the manufacturing of PVC. Toxins emitted from the production have been found to increase the risk of the following:

• Cancer
• Endocrine disruption
• Endometriosis
• Neurological damage
• Birth defects & impaired child development
• Reproductive and immune system damage

As well, the environmental impact is great. PVC cannot be recycled, so it ends up in landfills where it may be accidentally combined with other substances that increase the toxic nature of PVC. In addition, the material wears more quickly than other, more expensive materials used in building and construction.

Though the main area to target when it comes to avoiding products with PVC is the construction industry (over 75% of PVC use), we may have to take smaller stabs at ridding the world of PVC production and use. The construction industry is taking into account the long-term cost and environmental impact of PVC, but what will we do with all the PVC that’s currently in use in homes and buildings?

Earplugs are small, so it’s not as though they are creating a huge impact, but it’s good to know that companies like Moldex are doing their part. And you can too. Every time you make a purchase that is PVC-free, you are helping protect our environment and diminishing the ill health effects of PVC manufacturing. This is especially true if many earplugs are being used such as seen with use of industrial earplugs.

As well, many users report that earplugs made with urethane or silicone such as Moldex, Heartech or Mack’s earplugs are more comfortable to wear as PVC may irritate some ear canals.

Whatever you choose, make sure you do protect your ears. Hearing damage can occur at decibel levels of 85 or higher. Even common noises such as traffic or yard equipment can reach much higher levels. Foam earplugs can also be used to help you sleep well at night or drown out stressful noises.