Researchers who study hearing loss in the workplace have found that a person who is exposed to noise levels above 85 decibels for a prolonged period of time is at risk for hearing loss. For this reason, these workers are required to wear hearing protectors, such as earplugs or earmuffs, while they are on the job. Many devices that children use today have noise levels much higher than 85 decibels. For example, an MP3 player at maximum level is roughly on 105 decibels. That’s 100 times more intense than 85 decibels! Scientists recommend no more than 15 minutes of unprotected exposure to sounds that are 100 decibels. In addition, regular exposure to sounds at 110 decibels for more than one minute risks permanent hearing loss.

BuddyPhones is a volume-limiting headphones designed for kids’ safe listening. BuddyPhones feature a built-in volume-limiting circuitry that keeps the sound pressure down to levels recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO