Abstract
Although hearing protection devices (HPD) should be used as a temporary solution, their selection shouldn't be neglected. Some ergonomics features associated with this kind of protective device must be taken into account. The present study aims at analyzing the relationship between the efficiency and the ergonomics aspects related to the comfort afforded by a personal hearing protector when used in industrial noisy environments. Results obtained seem to demonstrate that there are significant differences between catalogued and effective attenuation. Finally, we must emphasize that the former goal can only be achieved through the attainment of an adequate balance between the range of parameters likely to determine HPD usage. Moreover, it is important to consider the role played by the workers, namely their attitude towards the use of hearing protection, which will ultimately determine the overall success of any hearing conservation program.
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