Use Of Earplugs Research Articles

Occupational Health and Safety Risks Associated with Grass Trimmers in One of the Universities in Zimbabwe

Objectives: This research intends to investigate occupational health and safety risks associated with grass-trimming activities at a local university in Zimbabwe and recommend on ways to reduce the risks. Methods: A mixed-method approach was adopted and the research was based on a case study design. Data was collected using questionnaires, observations, and interviews, with a total of 27 participants involved in the study. Data was analysed using thematic analysis and ranking and scoring using a ranking matrix. Results: The findings revealed that the most prevalent risks were attributed to factors such as physical hazards which include noise, dust, solar radiation, and ergonomic issues. Among the identified causes of these risks were a lack of training, and improper use of personal protective equipment. Conclusion: The research concluded that grass-trimming operations introduce various health and safety risks that need to be effectively managed to ensure the well-being of workers and the general public. The researchers recommended the implementation of comprehensive training programs for employees, proper use of protective clothing and equipment to avoid noise and dust such as the use of earplugs, masks and regular maintenance of the grass trimming equipment and machines.

Comparative Evaluation Between Conventional Earplugs and Modified Earplugs in Reducing the Severity of Gag Reflex While Making Impression in Completely Edentulous Patients: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

Background The gag reflex is a common problem encountered during impression-making in completely edentulous patients. The use of music therapy and earplugs reduces gag reflex severity. However, no comparative study has been reported to establish their effectiveness. Methods This randomized controlled trial randomly assigns 56 completely edentulous patients with gag reflexes to either the conventional earplug group or modified earplug group. The patients will, with earplugs on, listen to music while waiting and resting for a period of 10 minutes before maxillary impression-making. The Gagging Severity Index (GSI) and Gagging Prevention Index (GPI) will be measured to assess whether music therapy with earplugs would be effective in minimizing the gag reflex. Results The results showed that, in the conventional earplug group, GPI at 2.9643 ± 1.20130 was more effective than GSI at 2.9286 ± 0.81325, but it was not significant at p = 0.051. On the contrary, in the modified earplug group, a gain was observed with respect to the significant effectiveness of GPI at 2.8929 ± 1.31485 compared to GSI at 2.6786 ± 0.77237, reaching a significance of p = 0.003. The result also indicates no significant difference between the two groups in GPI at p = 0.430. Conclusion There was a reduction in the severity of the gag reflex with the use of modified earplugs as compared to a conventional earplug. Music therapy and earplugs can be used as an adjunct to reduce gag reflex during impression-making in completely edentulous patients.

External Auditory Canal Exostosis and the California Surfer Population: A Cross-Sectional Study.

California has the most surfers in the United States and a high prevalence of external auditory canal exostoses (EACEs) among them. We aimed to characterize their EACE knowledge, use of earplugs, and barriers toward earplug use. A RedCap survey was distributed to online surfing forums and surfers at California beaches. Descriptive statistics and regression analyses were used to characterize responses. Our cohort included 334 primarily male (n = 269, 81.52%), college-educated (n = 237, 71.17%) surfers who were on average 30.79 years old (SD = 11.07). Two hundred and ninety-seven (90.00%) heard of EACE and 317 (96.06%) believed earplugs prevent EACE. However, 214 (64.85%) had never used earplugs. Multivariable logistic regression found increased age (OR = 1.04, 95% CI = [1.00-1.08], p = 0.03), higher EACE knowledge quiz scores (OR = 1.47, 95% CI = [1.19-1.80], p < 0.001), and primarily surfing in Southern California (OR = 2.19, 95% CI = [1.15-4.16], p = 0.02) increased the likelihood of earplug use. Common reasons against earplug use included reduced hearing, discomfort, and social hindrance. Two hundred and eighty-seven (86.45%) would wear earplugs following more EACE knowledge. They preferred learning from surf community members, doctors, and surf events. Low earplug use despite awareness of EACE preventability suggests a need for EACE education among California surfers and more accessible, user-friendly earplugs. Younger, less-skilled surfers who were more commonly unaware of EACE may represent a key intervention group. Education could be promoted through partnerships between health professionals and renowned surf organizations, as most participants indicated a willingness to use earplugs post-education. N/A Laryngoscope, 2024.

Strategies to Improve Sleep Quality in Intensive Care Unit Patients.

Patients in intensive care units are exposed to many factors that can negatively affect the quality of their sleep. To describe the latest findings regarding sleep quality improvement in intensive care unit patients. An integrative literature review was conducted in the CINAHL, PubMed, Cochrane Library, and MEDLINE databases in April and May 2023. The following keywords were used: intensive care units, promotion, sleep quality, and sleep. The Critical Appraisal Skills Programme tool was used to assess the quality of individual studies. Of 159 articles identified, 10 were included in the final analysis. The findings were grouped into 4 thematic categories: consequences of poor sleep quality, factors affecting sleep quality, pharmacologic ways to improve sleep quality, and nonpharmacologic ways to improve sleep quality. Various pharmacologic and nonpharmacologic treatments are used in clinical settings. Nonpharmacologic interventions include sleep masks, earplugs, reductions in alarm volume, and reductions in nighttime interventions. Relaxation techniques include aromatherapy, music therapy, and acupressure. The most effective way to improve sleep for intensive care unit patients is to use a combination of pharmacologic and nonpharmacologic interventions. Among the latter, the use of earplugs and sleep masks is simplest.

Effect of Lavender Aromatherapy Combination and Earplug Use on Sleep Quality of Critically Patients

Effect of Lavender Aromatherapy Combination and Earplug Use on Sleep Quality of Critically Patients

Effectiveness of Earplugs and Eye Masks on Sleep Quality and Fatigue Among Nonventilated Patients in an Intensive Care Unit.

Sleep is a basic physiological need and is imperative for healing and rejuvenation. However, the environment of the intensive care unit (ICU), including loud sounds and bright lights, can undermine patients' sleep quality. This study was designed to determine the effectiveness of overnight use of earplugs and eye masks to improve sleep quality and potentially influence hemodynamic parameters and mitigate fatigue among nonventilated patients in an ICU. This experimental study was conducted among 84 nonventilated patients in an ICU. The patients were evenly divided between an intervention group (n=42) and a control group (n=42). The intervention group patients received earplugs and eye masks for three consecutive nights from 10:30 pm to 6:30 am, while the control group patients received routine care. Clinical data, responses to the Richards-Campbell sleep questionnaire, and rankings on a numerical fatigue scale were collected before (pretest) and after the intervention each night and the next morning (posttests 1, 2, and 3). The results revealed a significant reduction in fatigue. At pretest, fatigue scores in the study group were 4.19±1.64. The score was significantly reduced to 3.40±1.39 at posttest 1 and then to 2.21±1.00 at posttest 3 (p<0.0001). The sleep quality for the study group showed a significant improvement from the pretest score of 43.73±8.27 to 60.35±6.85 at posttest 3 (p<0.001), whereas the control group had slightly worse sleep quality, with 40.64±8.67 at pretest and 45.63±6.95 at posttest 3. Continuous patient monitoring is an essential nursing care activity in ICUs while ensuring good-quality sleep promotes healing and reduces fatigue. Sleep quality can be supported by devices such as earplugs and eye masks to limit undue disturbances in the ICU settings.

Analisis dan Upaya Preventif Risiko Tingkat Kebisingan Pekerjaan MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing) Konstruksi Rumah Susun di Ibu Kota Negara

Construction work is one of the jobs that has various high risks for workers and people who are around it. These risks come from various sources, one of which is noise from various equipment and ongoing activities. One of the jobs that cause high noise in construction work is MEP (Mechanical Electrical Plumbing) work. Based on Permenaker Number 13 Year 2011, the Threshold Value (NAB) for noise that can be accepted by workers is 85 dBA for 8 hours a day. Based on the measurement of the construction of the flats, the MEP work in the form of Beam Separator Elevator Installation, Pipe Fabrication, Electrical Wiring Lighting Installation, as well as Welding and Grinding of Iron Pipe causes noise above the NAB. The highest noise comes from pipe fabrication in the form of iron pipe cutting activities using large grinding tools and bevel machines that produce noise of 107 dBA. From the Daily Noise Dose (DND) calculation, the noise generated from MEP work has a dangerous risk level for workers' hearing. Risk control efforts that can be done are preventive actions based on the K3 hierarchy in the form of administrative controls such as changing working hours or shifts and conducting safety talks before work is carried out. In addition, another preventive measure is the use of PPE such as ear plugs. Based on the calculation of the noise reduction level, the use of ear plugs has not reduced the noise level to reach the NAB, so it is recommended that workers in pipe fabrication work use ear muffs to reduce noise exposure.

Analysis of measurement of the working environment of machine noise in the production area in packaging factory

Noise is an unwanted and disturbing sound that can damage comfort, work peace, hearing, blood pressure, heart rate and muscle tension. The threshold limit value (TLV) for noise in the company is 85 dB with 8 working hours of exposure. This research uses a quantitative observational method by directly observing machine noise and the noise received by workers. The way to measure noise is by using a calibrated sound level meter. The results of this research are threshold values, namely 85.7 dB and 90.5 dB. The noise is above TLV due to the many machines in one room and the additional equipment, namely blowers, on each table. However, in this situation, workers are obedient in using earplugs. Noise can cause disruption to hearing organs, workers' psychological conditions, and decreased worker productivity. This research shows that the noise condition of PT X's production area exceeds the threshold value set in PERMENAKER 5 of 2018. This research further recommends conducting safety patrols to ensure workers use earpugs or earmuffs and the use of earplugs or earmuffs correctly.

In hospitalized patients, does the use of earplugs at night decrease the incidence of hospital-acquired delirium?

In hospitalized patients, does the use of earplugs at night decrease the incidence of hospital-acquired delirium?

Prevalence of noise-induced health hazards and occupational safety practices among welders in Mysuru city: a cross-sectional study

Background: Occupational exposure to noise is a significant concern in the welding industry, posing potential health hazards to workers. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of noise-induced health hazards, knowledge regarding these hazards, and the practice of preventive measures among welders in Mysuru City. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted and data was collected from welders in Mysuru City, including noise exposure levels, perceived stress levels, insomnia prevalence, and demographic characteristics. The association between the number of years of noise exposure and auditory/non-auditory health effects was analysed. Participants' awareness of noise-induced health hazards and the use of protective equipment were also evaluated. Results: The study included male participants, predominantly below 30 years of age, with a majority (74.3%) belonging to the Muslim community. Decreased hearing (11.5%) and sleep disorders (3%) were reported by participants. About half (53.7%) were aware of noise-induced health hazards, with a high usage of safety glasses but limited use of earplugs. Most had exposure to noise for less than 5 years. Moderate levels of perceived stress and low prevalence of insomnia were observed. Significant associations were found between the number of years of noise exposure and both auditory/non-auditory health hazards, as well as between age category and auditory health effects. Conclusions: The study reveals the prevalence of noise-induced health hazards among welders in Mysuru City and highlights the importance of promoting occupational health and safety measures. Raising awareness and encouraging the use of protective measures are crucial to mitigate the adverse effects of noise exposure in the welding industry.

Risk Ratio of Noise-Induced Hearing Loss in Mineral Ore Processing Industry Workers

The mining industry employs machines and equipment that generate noise. Noise is an unwanted sound that can cause discomfort to listeners, leading to health issues. One of the health problems caused by noise is Noise-Induced Hearing Loss (NIHL), a hearing impairment resulting from continuous exposure to hazardous noise levels. The Permissible Noise Exposure (PNE) value in the mining industry is set at 85 dB(A). This study aims to assess the risk of noise exposure in relation to the occurrence of NIHL among mineral ore processing workers in the mining industry in Indonesia. The study employs the epidemiological frequency measurement method Relative Risk Ratio (RR). The study categorizes workers into two groups: native mining industry workers and contractor workers in the mining industry. The RR results for each group are 2.68 and 2.76 (RR>1), respectively. These results indicate that the noise-exposed group is at a 2.68-2.76 times higher risk of experiencing NIHL compared to the non-exposed group. Noise exposure in the mining industry poses a high risk of NIHL to workers, necessitating control measures. Control measures involve reducing noise exposure using Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) such as earplugs for workers in noisy areas. The use of earplugs can reduce noise by around 24-32 dB(A). Additionally, some industrial companies conduct awareness programs to encourage workers to use earplugs or other PPE, known as the hearing conservation program.

Effects of noise intensity on concentration levels of chainsaw operators and harvesting workers in industrial forest plantation, North Sumatera, Indonesia

Background Noise has the potential to affect the comfort and health of workers. The objective of this research was to determines the effects of noise on the concentration levels of both chainsaw operators and harvesting workers in industrial forest plantation, North Sumatra, Indonesia. Methods This experimental study included 20 respondents which consisted of 10 chainsaw operators/helpers and 10 harvesting workers. All respondents were exposed to the sound of a chainsaw in three different conditions (idle, half gas and racing conditions) with and without personal protective equipment (PPEs: earmuffs, ear plugs and without PPE). The sound intensity produced by the chainsaw and the noise received by the respondents were measured using a sound level meter. Respondents’ perception toward noise was recorded using a Likert scale. Respondents’ concentration level was assessed by giving 25 math-questions to be answered within 10 minutes. Wilcoxon sign rank test was used to analysed paired data. Results The average sound intensity received by respondents’ left and right ears were lower than the average sound intensity produced by the chainsaw. The use of earmuffs leads to better perception towards noise when compared with the use of earplugs and the absence of any PPE. Based on Wilcoxon test, the noise did not have significant impact on the concentration level of chainsaw operators, whilst the contrary result is true for harvesting workers. Conclusions The research indicated that although the noise produced by the chainsaw was considered noisy for both chainsaw operators and harvesting workers, it did not have a significant effect on the concentration level of chainsaw operators and only affected the harvesting workers. Therefore, given that the harvesting workers were still affected by the noise, noise control measures are still needed to ensure occupational safety and health for the workers.

Passive earplug including Helmholtz resonators arranged in series to achieve broadband near zero occlusion effect at low frequencies.

The use of passive earplugs is often associated with the occlusion effect: a phenomenon described as the increased auditory perception of one's own physiological noise at low frequencies. As a notable acoustic discomfort, the occlusion effect penalizes the use and the efficiency of earplugs. This phenomenon is objectively characterized by the increase in sound pressure level in the occluded ear canal compared to the open ear canal. Taking inspiration from acoustic metamaterials, a new design of a three-dimensional printed "meta-earplug," made of four Helmholtz resonators arranged in series, is proposed for achieving near zero objective occlusion effect measured on artificial ear in a broadband frequency range (300 Hz to 1 kHz). For this purpose, the geometry of the meta-earplug is optimized to achieve a null occlusion effect target based on an analytical model of the phenomenon. It results from the optimization process that the input impedance of the meta-earplug medial surface approximately matches the input impedance of the open ear canal, weighted by the ratio of volume velocity imposed by the ear canal wall to the ear canal cavity between open and occluded cases. Acoustic properties of the meta-earplug are also shown to significantly improve its sound attenuation at the piston-like mode of the system.

Noise-induced hearing loss in the pre-industrial era: early contributions in De Morbis Artificum by Bernardino Ramazzini (1633-1714).

Noise-induced hearing loss is the most prevalent occupational disease worldwide and is historically associated with the Industrial Revolution. This study analyses early descriptions of this disorder during the pre-industrial period in the work of the Italian physician Bernardino Ramazzini (1633-1714). Primary and secondary historical literature were reviewed. Ramazzini described hearing loss in corn millers and in coppersmiths and recognised that this disorder is irreversible and progressive when exposure to noise continues. He also seemed to describe tinnitus. He further suggested the use of earplugs as a preventive measure for these classes of workers. Ramazzini's anatomical and pathological knowledge appears to be based on ancient authors; he did not discuss contemporaneous medical authors' work on hearing function. Despite some limitations, Ramazzini's work appears pioneering for his time and represents an important milestone in the history of otolaryngology.

Effects of noise intensity on concentration levels of chainsaw operators and harvesting workers in industrial forest plantation, North Sumatera, Indonesia.

Noise has the potential to affect the comfort and health of workers. The objective of this research was to determines the effects of noise on the concentration levels of both chainsaw operators and harvesting workers in industrial forest plantation, North Sumatra, Indonesia. This experimental study included 20 respondents which consisted of 10 chainsaw operators/helpers and 10 harvesting workers. All respondents were exposed to the sound of a chainsaw in three different conditions (idle, half gas and racing conditions) with and without personal protective equipment (PPEs: earmuffs, ear plugs and without PPE). The sound intensity produced by the chainsaw and the noise received by the respondents were measured using a sound level meter. Respondents' perception toward noise was recorded using a Likert scale. Respondents' concentration level was assessed by giving 25 math-questions to be answered within 10 minutes. Wilcoxon sign rank test was used to analysed paired data. The average sound intensity received by respondents' left and right ears were lower than the average sound intensity produced by the chainsaw. The use of earmuffs leads to better perception towards noise when compared with the use of earplugs and the absence of any PPE. Based on Wilcoxon test, the noise did not have significant impact on the concentration level of chainsaw operators, whilst the contrary result is true for harvesting workers. The research indicated that although the noise produced by the chainsaw was considered noisy for both chainsaw operators and harvesting workers, it did not have a significant effect on the concentration level of chainsaw operators and only affected the harvesting workers. Therefore, given that the harvesting workers were still affected by the noise, noise control measures are still needed to ensure occupational safety and health for the workers.

Sleep during and following critical illness: A narrative review.

Sleep is a complex process influenced by biological and environmental factors. Disturbances of sleep quantity and quality occur frequently in the critically ill and remain prevalent in survivors for at least 12 mo. Sleep disturbances are associated with adverse outcomes across multiple organ systems but are most strongly linked to delirium and cognitive impairment. This review will outline the predisposing and precipitating factors for sleep disturbance, categorised into patient, environmental and treatment-related factors. The objective and subjective methodologies used to quantify sleep during critical illness will be reviewed. While polysomnography remains the gold-standard, its use in the critical care setting still presents many barriers. Other methodologies are needed to better understand the pathophysiology, epidemiology and treatment of sleep disturbance in this population. Subjective outcome measures, including the Richards-Campbell Sleep Questionnaire, are still required for trials involving a greater number of patients and provide valuable insight into patients' experiences of disturbed sleep. Finally, sleep optimisation strategies are reviewed, including intervention bundles, ambient noise and light reduction, quiet time, and the use of ear plugs and eye masks. While drugs to improve sleep are frequently prescribed to patients in the ICU, evidence supporting their effectiveness is lacking.

What do windsurfers and kitesurfers in Germany know about surfer's ear and how is it influenced by protective measures?

This study investigated the frequency of ear canal protection use and looked at its influence on external auditory exostosis severity and knowledge about external auditory exostosis among windsurfers and kitesurfers on the German coast. This retrospective cross-sectional study interviewed 130 windsurfers and kitesurfers along the German coast on knowledge of external auditory exostosis, exposure time, use of neoprene hoods and earplugs, and otological complaints. Participants underwent bilateral video-otoscopic examination. Knowledge of external auditory exostosis was 'good' or 'excellent' in 78 of 130 (60 per cent) individuals and 'poor' or non-existent in 52 of 130 (40 per cent) individuals. Knowledge was positively correlated with hours of exposure, otological complaints and frequency of ear canal protection use. A significant negative influence of neoprene hood use on external auditory exostosis severity was shown. The positive effect of external auditory exostosis knowledge on the frequency of ear canal protection and the reduction of external auditory exostosis risk implies a need for health education on this topic.

Laboratory measurements for objective evaluation of earplug fidelity

Musicians and concertgoers can easily be exposed to dangerously high noise doses that lead to hearing loss, and earplug use is often encouraged during loud musical performances. Traditional earplugs for industrial use can distort musical signals reaching the ear to the extent that users find their use disorienting and uncomfortable. High fidelity earplugs are designed to preserve musical sounds better than traditional earplugs by presenting a flat spectral attenuation of sound reaching the ears. At present, it’s not clear how to quantitatively compare different models in an analogous way to other devices in the high-fidelity sphere such as loudspeakers and amplifiers. In this presentation, a suite of laboratory measurements and derived metrics are proposed that lead to a comprehensive evaluation of earplug fidelity in terms of insertion loss levels, flatness, polar distortion maps, and temporal skewing. Initial results for a range of devices are presented, followed by a discussion of future directions.

Quantifying impacts of hearing protection devices on sound localization in azimuth and elevation: Refinement of acoustic predictors

Modern hearing protection devices (HPDs) mitigate the risk of noise-induced hearing loss when used as intended, but negative auditory perceptual side-effects continue to limit usability in critical settings. Dozens of studies have shown that HPDs lead to significant errors in sound source localization. Several studies, including previous studies by our group, have linked such errors to distortions of the spectra of transmitted signals. Here we provide an update on a multi-site effort to develop acoustic predictors and summary metrics to quantify HPD impacts on sound source localization. At two independent study sites, human listeners localized brief broadband signals with open ears and during use of passive and active earplug and earmuff-style devices. Sources spanning 360° in azimuth and −30° to + 60° in elevation enabled measurement of two-dimensional localization error across a broad range of source locations. An initial set of parallel acoustic measurements was obtained using a standardized acoustic test fixture. Present efforts are focused on evaluating prospective advantages of (1) incorporating binaural acoustic data in the prediction of errors and (2) accounting for individual HPD-impacted acoustic variability. The long-term goal of this work is to support application-specific selection of existing HPDs and inform the design of new HPDs.

Use of Earplugs and Eye Masks in Patients with Sleep Disorders in the ICU: Systematic Review

The stimuli that can come from the care environment and the development of the disease influence the quality of sleep of patients in intensive care because they can reduce the secretion of melatonin. In contrast, the noise and excessive lighting of the ward will influence a circadian rhythm, impacting parturient disorders (sleep disorders). Therefore, nursing interventions to improve normal circadian rhythms are needed to improve the patient's sleep quality. Wearing earplugs and eye masks is an important and logical way to prevent awakening from sleep caused by external stimuli. This research aimed to determine the effect of ear plugs and eye masks on sleep quality in patients in the intensive care room. The method used is the literature review. This article was taken from Google Scholar for the period 2014–2022. The search and selection procedure based on PRISMA led to the analysis of 20 articles. Results: Based on the analytical results of 20 articles, show that there is an effect of applying ear plugs and eye masks to patients with sleep disorders in the intensive care room. The author recommends the implementation of ear plugs and eye masks in ICU sleep disorder patients because earplugs reduce noise and eye masks function as eye masks so that the light does not directly hit the eyes to improve the quality of sleep in patients in Intensive Care Unit rooms.