Noise Reduction Rating (NRR) indicates how effectively hearing protectors such as earmuffs or earplugs attenuate ambient noise. It is most commonly used for passive hearing protection in loud environments like construction sites or shooting ranges.
The NRR value is expressed in decibels (dB) and tells you how much sound is reduced before reaching the ear. A higher NRR means better noise reduction and stronger hearing protection.
If you are in a 100 dB environment and wear hearing protectors rated NRR 30 dB, your effective noise exposure is reduced to about 70 dB (subject to correction factors like those from NIOSH).
NRR is a standardized rating used primarily in the US (EPA). In Europe, the SNR (Single Number Rating) system may also be used.