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Is Blu-tack as effective at attenuating sound as over-the-counter ear plugs?

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  24 April 2013

G J Watson ,
G Trainor  and
A E Camilleri
G J Watson
Affiliation:
Department of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery, University Hospital of South Manchester NHS Trust, Manchester, UK
G Trainor
Affiliation:
Department of Audiology, Withington Community Hospital, Manchester, UK
A E Camilleri*
Affiliation:
Department of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery, University Hospital of South Manchester NHS Trust, Manchester, UK
*
Address for correspondence: Mr A E Camilleri, Department of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery, University Hospital of South Manchester NHS Trust, Southmoor Rd, Wythenshawe, Manchester M23 9LT, UK Fax: +44 161 291 4032 E-mail: Andrew.camilleri@UHSM.nhs.uk
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Abstract

Objective:

To demonstrate that Blu-tack is equally effective at attenuating sound as over-the-counter ear plugs.

Methods:

Nineteen healthy volunteers had their hearing thresholds assessed before and after the insertion of over-the-counter ear plugs. The results were compared with hearing thresholds following the insertion of Blu-tack. Thresholds were tested at: 0.5, 1, 2, 3, 4, 6 and 8 kHz. The differences were compared, and p values of less than 0.02 were regarded as significant. Using a visual analogue scale, volunteers were asked to assess the comfort and ease of insertion of the ear plugs and Blu-tack, and their peace of mind whilst using the ear plugs and Blu-tack.

Results:

Blu-tack was less effective at attenuating sound at low frequencies, but was as effective as over-the-counter ear plugs at attenuating sound above 3 kHz. Blu-tack was significantly more comfortable to wear (p = 0.006). There was no difference in terms of ease of insertion and peace of mind.

Conclusion:

Blu-tack can be regarded as a comfortable alternative to over-the-counter ear plugs for the attenuation of everyday sound.

Keywords

Ear, ExternalHearing LossSoundAcoustic StimulationEar Protective Devices
Type
Main Articles
Information
The Journal of Laryngology & Otology , Volume 127 , Issue 6 , June 2013 , pp. 574 - 577
Copyright
Copyright © JLO (1984) Limited 2013 

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