NHCA 2021 Virtual Conference

Hearing protection devices (HPD) may offer protection to musicians, including some designed to provide uniform attenuation across frequencies. Even though these are available, studies find that musicians, especially students and instructors, do not wear them. Additionally, there is evidence indicating that many users do not achieve good fit and adequate sound reduction with HPD, which has led to recommendations for fit-testing in the workplace. Understanding the effectiveness of HPD in combination with musicians’ opinions about wearing them, we can make better recommendations for which types may be the most effective options for reducing excessive sound exposures. Twenty-four musicians were recruited and provided with three HPD: formable foam, non-custom uniform attenuation earplugs (UAE), and custom UAE. Audiometric testing was used to obtain personal attenuation levels at nine frequencies (125-8000 Hz) for each HPD which were compared to manufacturer ratings. The coefficient of variation of attenuation across frequencies was used to determine uniformity of attenuation. Participants completed surveys over six months regarding HPD use, and perceptions regarding positive and negatives aspects of wearing HPD. Survey questions were based on primary constructs of the Health Belief Model which is used to help predict whether people will engage in a specific health behavior.

Learning Objectives:
As a result of this Continuing Education Activity, readers will be able to:
1) Assess the importance of fit-testing when recommending HPD for workers.
2) Identify musicians' frequently reported benefits and barriers to wearing Hearing Protection.
3) Identify factors influencing HPD effectiveness for musicians.