The authors evaluated pure tone audiometry with and without specific ear protectors. Aim: The purpose of this case control study was to measure the level of sound attenuation by earplugs. Material and Methods: The evaluation included sixty ears of 30 subjects of both sexes, aged between 20 and 58 years, of various professional activities, with normal hearing thresholds, and following ten hours of auditory rest. The statistical results of pure tone audiometry at 500 to 4000 Hertz with and

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... specific ear protectors were analyzed. Results: These results were compared with those provided by the ear protector manufacturer. Conclusion: The results show that the rate of sound reduction was similar to the manufacturer's specifications. Rev Bras Otorrinolaringol 2008;74(3):417-22. original article