Protecting Our Hearing

If one cannot reduce noise, then some form of hearing protection device is essential. Common hearing protection units include ear-plug, muffs, helmets. Most protectors provide an reduction in exposure of about 15 to 30 dB .There have been a number of studies on figuring out the best material for blocking sound.

One such study was conducted by Akshith and his friends, Ben, Marissa , and Grace at school. They studied various materials like foam, a small pillow, a sponge, a towel made of 80% polyester and 20% polyamide, fabric made of cotton, and fleece. The towel blocked 70% of the sound. They concluded that materials made of polyester and polyamide were the best at blocking sound. Wearing earmuffs in noisy places is also a good way to protect the ear.