Well, legislators most certainly aren’t engineers. The sensitivity of IEMs is considerably higher than open earbuds, making the attenuation factor a bit of a problem. The EU limitation is a matter of product compliance, of course, that all manufacturers must comply with.
I had to play the role of “volume constable” with my daughters, until they saw the light of preserving their hearing.
My hearing is still acceptable as of the last test, but years of blaring sirens overhead, chainsaws, and the helicopter turbines have nibbled at my own ears.
Always set your volume at a comfortable level if you can. Tinnitus ■■■■■, to put it mildly. I carry a set of “foamies” in my pocket, and don the big guys whenever the noise level is high.
Bob 
Message Edited by neutron_bob on 08-15-2010 05:50 PM
