Abstract:

Issues related to label content are analyzed from a human factors perspective. Current labeling requirements are critiqued, and the need for additional information or the presentation of existing information in a different form is examined. Some of the specific questions addressed include the following. Who are the users and how do the information requirements of the individual selecting the hearing protection devices (HPDs) for the employer differ from those of the end user/wearer? What are the responsibilities of the government regulatory agencies (i.e., EPA, OSHA), the HPD manufacturer, and the employer, relating to the accuracy of the reported attenuation performance of the HPD? Should comfort data be obtained and reported? How should the fitting instructions be presented? What special workplace conditions (signal detection, speech intelligibility, dust, dirt, temperature, etc.) should be considered in the HPD selection process, and should these factors be addressed in the HPD label?