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From: David.Postler@f778.n115.z1.fidonet.org (David Postler)
Newsgroups: misc.handicap
Subject: Noise Reduction
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Date: 21 Sep 90 15:08:59 GMT
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Index Number: 10561

     Interesting,  you hear too well.  I have a  suggestion  that 
may  help your problem.  In my work I often have to use  "Hearing 
Protectors"   these  are devices that block out  the  high  noise 
levels that sometimes occur in factories and around jet aircraft.  
They  might be able to help with your problem and  I'm  surprised 
that no one else has mentioned them.  They are very cheap and are 
at  least worth a try as the maximum cost would be around  $40.00 
and  can  be far less, perhaps even free. You could  obtain  them 
from a hardware store or an Industrial or Safety supply  company.  
I  have  worn  several  types and will  give  some  comments  and 
opinions  about each type.  Keep in mind that I am not an  expert 
in this field, I just use them. 
     My favorite type is the disposable foam plug type  sometimes 
called  E*A*R type after the first company to make them.    These 
are  0.625" by 1.0"(approximate) foam plugs that are squeezed  in 
your  hand  and  then placed in the ear canal  to  expand.   They 
provide about 35db noise reduction.  They are extremely effective 
against background noise ie machinery but still allow you to have 
a  conversation.  They are disposable or washable,  your  choice.  
Cost  is  about  $40.00 for a box of  100.   They  are  extremely 
comfortable.  I have worn them for over 10 hrs with no  problems.  
You may be able to get a free sample to try out.  
     Potential drawbacks: The only possible problem is that  they 
may  not filter out conversations or higher frequency noises  for 
you.
     My  next choice is the muff type.  These are the types  that 
you  see  on  the Air Force or Airline commercials  worn  by  the 
people  directing  the  jets.   They  provide  about  25db  noise 
reduction.   They also tend to filter out everything.  Which  may 
make  them better for you.  They cost about $10.00 to $40.00.   A 
good  pair can be comfortable but they are heavy and if you  want 
to talk to someone you will have to take them off.
     Potential drawbacks: Very noticeable and difficult to  carry 
around.   Also  not as much noise reduction  as  disposable  foam 
plugs.
     My least favorite is the reusable plug type.  These are also 
placed  in  your  ear  canal like to foam  type  but  are  molded 
plastic.   They  provide about 25db noise reduction.   They  cost 
from $2.00 to $30.00.  My biggest objection to these is that they 
tend to stiffen up with repeated use and irritate my ears.  
     Potential   drawbacks:  Not  as  much  noise  reduction   as 
disposable foam plugs.  The band type also has the same drawbacks 
as  the  muff style.   Will have to be replaced  periodically  to 
prevent ear irritation.
     I  hope  this  helps  you  out.  If  you  need  to  find  an 
industrial or safety supply company check the local yellow pages.
          Best of luck

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