When should eye and ear protection be used?

Eye and ear protection should always be used when firing small arms because of the potential hazards associated with shooting. Firearms can produce significant noise levels that may lead to hearing damage, and small particles or debris can be ejected during the firing process, posing a risk to the eyes.

Using protection is part of safe firearm handling and contributes to minimizing injury. Even in a controlled environment, such as a shooting range, unexpected occurrences can happen that might compromise safety. Therefore, adhering to the practice of wearing protective gear consistently ensures that both the shooter and those nearby remain safe from injury regardless of the circumstances. This standard applies to all shooting situations, not just competitive ones, and is considered best practice in any context where firearms are involved.