PURPOSE: to analyze the effectiveness for inserting different hearing protectors in trained and non-trained subjects. METHODS: we investigated the attenuation for four models of hearing protectors (foam earplugs, three-flange silicone earplugs, olive end earplugs and shell earplugs) by means of two strategies, namely, free-field audiometry and microphone probe measurements, with and without h. p. for comparison and determination of noise elimination. Two groups were evaluated: Group 1, with workers trained (23) in the use of hearing protectors, and Group 2, with non-trained ones (8). RESULTS: in group 1, the differences of hearing thresholds with and with no hearing protectors evaluated by the aforementioned methods, in general values, are greater than those of group 2. Shell earplugs submitted average values higher then those of the other types; and olive-end earplugs submitted the minor values. CONCLUSION: training for using hearing protectors is necessary and must be included in Hearing Conservation Programs (HCP).
Ear Pprotective Devices; Hearing Loss Noise-Induced; Occupational Health; Hearing
