Archive

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Med. Pr. 2000;51(2)

Hearing protectors in prevention of occupational hearing impairment

Ochronniki słuchu jako element profilaktyki zawodowego uszkodzenia słuchu

E. Kotarbińska

Abstract

The paper presents basic information concerning hearing protectors. The use hearing protectors is simplest and most common way of reducing the effect of noise on hearing. Design concepts and performance of ear-muffs and ear-plugs are presented. The requirements of acoustical and mechanical properties of hearing protectors according to European standards adopted in Poland are discussed. The values of the main acoustical and mechanical parameters of 97 certified for the safety mark hearing protectors arepresented. Assumptions for choosing the most suitable protectors for a noise spectrum and the principles of their use are discussed.