Noise and Hearing Conservation Films and Videotapes: Reviews and Availability

E-A-R 82-10/HP

E. H. Berger, M.S.

C. A. Kladden

E·A·R / Hearing Protection Products

E·A·RCAL 4 Laboratory

7911 Zionsville Road

Indianapolis, IN 46268-1657

phone: 317-692-1111

Fax: 317-692-3116

August, 1998

Version 17.1

E· A· RCALSM

Laboratory is accredited by the National Institute of Standards and Technology, National Voluntary Laboratory Accreditation Program, for the measurement of attenuation of hearing protection devices re ANSI S3.19-1974 and ANSI S12.6-1997. Laboratory Code 100374-0.

Noise and Hearing Conservation

Films and Videotapes

This is a list of films and videotapes available on hearing and noise. All pricing and associated information are at least as recent as August, 1998, however it is recommended that the reader verify all information prior to making final selections or ordering. Additions to this list are welcome. Information should be sent to the authors at the address shown on the cover.

The film reviews are grouped by the producer/ distributor of the films, with a Table of Contents by producer/distributor listed following this page. To assist the reader in locating films of interest, Table I provides lists of all films in alphabetical order, by title and Table II lists them in ascending order by copyright date. Appendix I (available upon request) contains hard to find or out of print films, as well as films that we have rated as “not recommended.” Once a desired film is located in the Appendices, the reader should use the name of the associated producer/distributor and turn to the Contents pages to find the page on which the review can be found. One producer can appear on all lists. Included in the Appendices are the film's rating, targeted audience, length, copyright, and the date it was reviewed by our staff. An "r" following the viewing date indicates a re-viewing of a previously screened film.

Included with each of the film reviews is the information on obtaining the films. Please note that the only films available through E·A·R/Hearing Protection Products are those which have been produced by E·A·R/Hearing Protection Products. To obtain any of the other films, please contact their respective producers and/or distributors.

The films have been screened and rated by our staff whenever possible. Films which have not been screened are noted as “not viewed.” Due to the difficulty of fairly and accurately rating such a diverse group of films, which have been reviewed over a period exceeding 15 years, we have chosen to utilize a general categorization, as described below.

Recommended (R) - These films should receive your primary consideration. Films may be recommended because of their excellence and/or because they do a creditable job of addressing a topic not dealt with by other films on the list.
Worthwhile (W) - If none of the recommended films meets your needs, then films in this category also merit consideration.
Not Recommended - Reviewed films with neither an "R" or W" rating have been included in Appendix I (available upon request) for completeness, but offer nothing that isn't more accurately and effectively presented by those listed in the recommended or worthwhile categories.

Table of Contents

Film Producers

AIMS Media 1
Better Hearing Institute 2
BNA Communications, Inc. 3
C&R Productions 4
Canadian Hearing Society 5
Center for Hearing, Speech and Language 7
Coastal Video Communications 8
Comprehensive Loss Management, Inc. CLMI 9
CRM Film 10
Dalloz Safety 11
E·A·R/Hearing Protection Products 12
ERI. 14
Encyclopedia Britannica 15
H.E.A.R. Hearing Education and Awareness for Rockers 16
The Hearing Rehabilittion Foundation 17
House Ear Institute 18
Howard Leight Industries 19
Industrial Hearing Service, Inc. 20
Industrial Training Systems Corp. (ITS) 21
Interactive Media Communications 23
International Film Bureau, Inc. 24
International Medifilms 25
Media Resources Inc. 26
Mine Safety Appliances Co. 28
Natl. Inst. on Deafness and other Communication Disorders 29
OSHA Office of Information 30
Pennsylvania State University 31
Pyramid Media 32
The Safety Center 33
Sertoma International 34
US Army Environmental Hygiene Agency 35
US Healthworks 36
University of Hartford 38
University of Michigan 39
University of Toronto 40
Williams Training Network 41
Workers' Compensation Board of British Columbia 42
Worksafe Australia 43
Table I - Films Listed Alphabetically by Title

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AIMS Media (800) 367-2467 (818) 773-4300

9710 DeSoto Ave.

Chatsworth, CA 91311-4409

Safety Gear: Hearing Protection (13 min., ©1989, Worthwhile) $99.95

Actor Martin Kove, the narrator for this snappy little training film, is a very convincing kind of guy. When he asks "what do you want to hear before the sound runs out?," and then admonishes us to "choose what you want to hear," it has emotional impact and seizes (at least for this viewer) one's attention. In fact, that is the principal appeal of this film; the pace, the photography, and the style are all designed to motivate the viewer and maintain his/her interest.

The content of the film, however, is only slightly above average. It describes how the ear works and how it is damaged by noise, how sound is measured, warns of tinnitus and other noise aftereffects, cautions that you don't get used to sound, dramatizes the personal impact of hearing loss, and discusses the NRR and hearing protectors. The film continues by briefly describing the effects of hearing protectors on communications and how hearing loss interacts with such effects, and then concludes by telling us "you know what to do...go do it!"

The section on hearing protectors is more complete than many others I have seen, with a strong emphasis on the use of foam earplugs, incorrectly stating however that "one size fits all;" in truth, one size fits most. Furthermore, premolded earplugs are said to be "difficult to use," when in fact they are easy to use but often hard to size/fit and may be less comfortable than foam earplugs for most users. Almost nothing is said about earmuffs.

And finally, there are a number of small technical inaccuracies. For example, the narrator confuses intensity (or sound pressure) which is the physical quantity, with loudness which is the subjective response to sound. As a result, he states that a 30-dB change in sound level yields a 1000-fold change in loudness. Actually, such a change results in an increase in sound intensity by a factor of 1000, an increase in sound pressure by a factor of 30, and an increase in loudness of only about a factor of 8.

These technical quibbles aside, the film is entertaining and informative and can be a worthwhile addition to a company's film library. The videotape is accompanied by a leader’s guide that provides a synopsis of the film, reviews its objectives, and presents background material and questions for a discussion that can precede and follow the film.

This videotape can be previewed for free.


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Better Hearing Institute (888) 432-7435 5021-B

Backlick Road

Annandale, VA 22003

People vs. Noise (27 min., ©1993, Worthwhile) $69.95

In 1983, the Better Hearing Institute produced an interesting new hearing conservation film entitled Listen Up with Norm Crosby. It was unique in that it contained cameo roles by many well-known celebrities, and useful information as well. That film is still available for free loan from E-A-R/Hearing Protection Products (see elsewhere this list). Celebrities come and go, and so 10 years later the Institute has updated their 1983 film with a re-glamorized version, People vs. Noise. For those familiar with the old film, they will note that many of the lines of dialog are identical, but spoken by new faces. That is ok, since the information hasn't aged; it is equally as important today as yesterday.

The master of ceremonies is Richard Dyshart of LA Law fame who conducts a mock trial. The film places the viewer in the position of judge and jury to mete out justice in a case of aggravated assault by the criminal, "noise."

Dyshart enlists over 15 celebrities such as actor Leslie Nielsen, singer Ray Charles, Lars Ulrich (from Metallica), race-car drivers Al and Bobby Unser, football pro Mike Singletary, and Senator Tom Harkin, as well as professionals in audition such as ear specialist Dr. Charles Cummings from Johns Hopkins and hearing aid museum curator Dr. Kenneth Berger from Kent State University, to discuss the various issues brought before the people. The issues include: the pervasiveness of noise (the number one disability in our nation), the relationship between noise and stress, examples of the levels of various noise sources (with unfortunate exaggeration of the noise levels of music and Walkman-type exposures), the importance of protecting one's self (with the misstatement that noise causes "total" deafness), the necessity of activism in combating noise in the community, demonstrations of hearing loss, testimonials about noise-damaged lives, and a serious sales pitch for hearing aids.

It is this latter issue (hearing aids), which is much more strongly pursued in the 1993 film than in the 1983 version, that is somewhat problematic. The virtues of hearing aids are overstated, and nowhere is mention made of the fact that hearing aids cannot restore the hearing ability of a noise-damaged ear to what it was before the damage occurred.

The attractiveness of this film is that the celebrities and the many film snippets which are included are likely to catch the viewers' attention and lend credibility to the message. However, the emphasis on hearing aids detracts from the impact of the message concerning prevention of hearing loss due to noise exposure. Although the film is primarily targeted towards the general public, it could also be utilized as an adjunct to other training aids in a hearing conservation program to provide a change of pace from the typical dull safety film.

A shorter version (15 min., not seen by this reviewer), is available for $49.95. Free previews are available.


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BNA Communications, Inc. (800) 217-2338 9439 (301) 948-0540

Key West Avenue

Rockville, MD 20850

ATTN: Customer Relations

Can You Hear Me? (16 min., ©1979, Worthwhile) $395.00

Motivational segment on ear adapted to nature, not noise. Mediocre explanation of hearing, noise, and noise measurements. Short segments showing E·A·R Plugs in use.

Film may be rented for one week (5 working days) for $175 plus shipping and tax. Film may be purchased for $370 plus shipping and tax. It is available in English or Spanish versions. Up to one week's rental can be applied to purchase price if ordered within 30 days after renting. Film is also available for preview for $40.00 which can be applied to purchase price as well.

Hearsafe (19 min., © 1995, Worthwhile) $495.00

Of the more recent hearing-conservation oriented films (circa the late 1990s), this one is somewhat different, since it doesn’t mention every single aspect of an OSHA-approved hearing conservation program. Thus, it has the opportunity to cover materials from a fresh viewpoint. However, the freshness in this package is only partial. The film does present all the information requires by an OSHA-mandated educational program, including material on how noise effects the ear, the purpose of hearing protectors, the advantages and disadvantages of each type of hearing protector, how to select, fit, use and care for HPDs, and the purpose of audiometric testing.

The film opens with a depiction of a speech-intelligibility audiogram and a threshold audiogram and then progresses directly into the hazards of loud music. The hearing mechanism is described, but sans animation. The on-screen narrator uses a large-scale static model which is disassembled to show the various parts of the outer, middle, and inner ear, and as in so many films we are presented with the hackneyed blades-of-grass analogy.

The remainder of the film is shared between videos of various noisy occupational and recreational activities, and coverage of a simulated hearing protector fitting training session with four employees. The recreational noise hazards include gunfire (worth the emphasis), race car driving (interesting with interviews of drivers), and model airplanes (unusual).

The fitting session covers many types of insert, semi-insert, and circumaural hearing protectors, as well as dual protection and hard hat attached earmuffs. Most of the information is useful with few mistakes, but it is presented in a rather unimaginative manner.

Hearsafe can be purchased for $495, rented for $175, and previewed for free. It is close captioned, and is available with a leader’s guide and participant materials that can be copied for hand outs.


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C&R Productions (800) 669-9065

Auditec of St. Louis

2515 S. Big Bend

St. Louis, MO 63143

Otoscopic Inspection of the Earcanal & Techniques for Cerumen Management.(34 min., ©1992, Recommended) $95.00

This rather dry and straightforward, but definitely unique video, is a comprehensive training film on otoscopic techniques and cerumen management. It opens, as might have been anticipated, with an obligatory and necessary warning that it should not be considered as a replacement for supervised clinical experience. In fact the film is peppered with warnings about the cerumen removal procedure itself, and whether or not it should be attempted by an audiologist and whether a physician needs to be present.

Beginning with a discussion of the composition and purpose of cerumen, along with interesting charts on the attenuation of airborne sound as a function of occlusion due to cerumen, this film covers all bases. Other topics include demonstration of proper otoscopic techniques, normal and abnormal earcanals and eardrums/middle ears, contraindications for an audiologist clearing an ear of cerumen, and the accepted method of cerumen removal including the associated use of over-the-counter softening agents.

For each topic area covered, such as the auditory problems associated with excessive cerumen (tinnitus, dizziness, itching, pain, infection, and cough) a slide listing the items is presented on screen while the narrator discusses the particular issues. Although it does not make for a dynamic or exciting presentation it is clear and effective.

Liberal use of the views from a video otoscope is made in the presentation of this film. It provides for clear and illustrative depiction of the normal and abnormal earcanal. Although normal ears are discussed slowly and with excellent detail, the myriad of abnormal ears that are shown are covered much too quickly and with too little description for even a knowledgeable audiologist to easily follow.

This film draws upon the expertise of Dr. Ross Roeser, one of the foremost authors in the area of cerumen research and removal. To the reviewers' knowledge, this film has little competition in its topic area, and thus should be one of the first places to look when otoscopy and/or cerumen removal are topics you wish to learn more about.

This film can be purchased for $95, plus $4.50 shipping and handling in 1/2" VHS format. No rentals available.


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Canadian Hearing Society (416) 964-9595 (voice) (416) 964-0023 (TDD)

Information Services

271 Spadina Rd.

Toronto, Ontario M5R 2V3

It's Easy to Take Hearing for Granted (11 min., ©1989, Worthwhile) $30.00

In a short, witty, dialog-free video, the Canadian Hearing Society has created an effective educational and motivational piece on the hazards of noise exposure and how hearing can be taken for granted. The Society recommends the film for audiences of all ages and backgrounds.

The scene opens with three mimes (two male and one female) who are the characters that guide us through the film. The woman is "talking" and playing with her male counterparts, enjoying music, dog barking and playing, and a squeeze toy. They hear her and participate.

Vignettes follow which illustrate construction workers, young people at a dance bar, sewing machine operators, the use of car stereo, a cardboard boxing operation, and a printing plant, all of which are staffed by the two male mimes from the opening scene. The female is always present to admonish them to wear hearing protection or turn the sound down; one man does, the other (male #2) consistently doesn't.

One day in the park, when male #2 tries to listen to his stereo earphones, the sound quality is obviously muffled and lacking, due to his newly and recently acquired noise-induced hearing loss. Awareness dawns, and his face clearly portrays the agony he now faces.

The film closes with a return to the opening scene, and a repeat of the playful events, but with male #2 obviously unable to participate due to his hearing loss. He is alone and distraught. The message "It's easy to take hearing for granted, until you can't hear anymore," is flashed on the screen in various languages, and hits the viewer full force with the tragedy and finality of the loss.

The beauty of this film is its emotional impact and its educative value in the absence of dialog, although it suffers from the possibility of appearing schmaltzy or overly stylized, it is worth your consideration.

Hear Today, Hear Tomorrow (24 min., ©1990, Recommended) $30.00

For a real change of pace check out this science fiction thriller which is vaguely reminiscent of The Never Ending Story. The unwilling hero is a teenage boy named J.J. Max who loves his music loud. His parents constantly hassle him to turn it down, but does he listen - NO.

Then one evening, in a scene from a bad drug trip, Dr. Frank Cochlea takes hold of J.J.’s TV and won't let him turn it off. "Turn it down, turn it down, turn it down" keeps echoing in J.J.’s ears. Then the nightmare begins in earnest as J.J. meets the lovely Princess Suria who is desperate to elicit his aid in her quest to rescue her father, King Cid from the nefarious Dr. What, and in so doing to foil the Dr.'s evil plan to destroy all hearing on the planet Mirth. Dr. What intends to do this by increasing all of the noise levels on the planet.

Woven into the fabric of the story are information and facts about noise and hearing loss. For example Dr. What says that his plan can succeed since the population won't notice their hearing loss until it is too late, and they won't realize that it is permanent. What's evil streak runs deep - he has even developed a secret formula for chalk so that its spine-tingling blackboard-screech is louder and more chilling! (cont. next page)


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Canadian Hearing Society (cont.)

In spite of the creative story line, the film does have its drawbacks, perhaps the foremost of which is its emphasis on the hazards of loud music, to the extent that it exaggerates the degree of the problem. Also, the factual information which is imbedded in the story is so subtly stated that it will be missed by many viewers. And finally, the audio mix is poor enough that much of the dialog in the action scenes is very difficult to understand.

The drawbacks notwithstanding, Bell Canada has provided an excellent service by producing this film which is distributed by the Canadian Hearing Society at an incredibly reasonable price. If your target audience is teenagers, either this film (which gets top marks for its creativity) or the House Clinic's Hearing is Priceless (which is equally as well produced, and easier to follow with more readily digestible information), are films worth considering.


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Center for Hearing, Speech and Language (303) 322-1871

Industrial Division

4280 Hale Parkway

Denver, CO 80220 ATTN: Nathan Hall

Stick It In Your Ear (15 min., ©1974, Recommended) $39.00

This film is a standout! It is unique in the way in which it approaches the subject matter of educating and motivating employees about noise and hearing conservation. It consists of nine short motivational skits, cartoons, and informational tidbits that are often quite entertaining and thus capable of capturing and holding a viewer's attention. This film is about as "snooze-proof" as a safety film can be.

The topics include the importance of good hearing both on and off the job; not letting your ears "grow old" before their time; you don't get used to noise, you "get deaf;” how hearing protectors help you hear better in noisy environments; how a hearing loss can be a social liability; and how hearing protection may be the only solution for a noise problem. The film would be better off without discussion of this last topic, since the way in which it is dealt with, and the implication that is made that noise controls are likely to lead to job elimination, is inappropriate and unnecessary to the theme of the film.

Another minor problem with the film is the explanation of why HPDs allow one to hear better in noise. The film indicates that this is because HPDs block the noise and let the speech through, which in fact is seldom the case. Rather, HPDs reduce the overall level of both noise and speech present at the ear so that the speech can be better discriminated and understood.


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Coastal Video Communications (804) 498-9014 (800) 767-7703 Fax (804) 498-3657

3083 Brickhouse Court

Virginia Beach, VA 23452

Hearing Protection - It Makes Sense (21 min., © 1995, Worthwhile) $495.00

Produced with technical support from the National Hearing Conservation Association (NHCA), this program is designed to help employers comply with OSHA’s Hearing Conservation Amendment (1910.95). The program is both educational and motivational and is interspersed with interviews with two men who fell victim to noise-induced hearing loss. It begins with a occupational vignette - the first-shift supervisor, who has an obvious (presumably) noise-induced hearing loss takes the “new kid” on a plant tour and ignores the posted hearing conservation requirements. No surprise here, and Carl’s hearing is testimony to that fact.

The film reviews on- and off-the-job noise exposures, decibels, levels, and duration, and points out that even when noise isn’t painful it can be damaging. Various phases of a hearing conservation program (HCP) are reviewed including noise monitoring with sound level meters and dosimeters, audiometry with discussion of standard threshold shifts (STSs) and STS follow-up, administrative and engineering controls, and a well-choreographed series of instructions on use of hearing protection. This also includes a discussion of the plusses and minuses of plugs vs. muffs, and somewhat excessive attention to the details of maintaining cleanliness of hearing protectors.

The film may be purchased for $495, rented for one week for $95, and previewed for free. An accompanying leader’s guide, employee handbooks, overheads and posters are available at additional cost. Coastal offers quantity discounts.


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Comprehensive Loss Management, Inc. CLMI (800) 533-2767

15800 32 nd Ave. N., Suite 106

Minneapolis, MN 55447

Blueprints for Safety - Hearing Conservation (13 min., © 1994, Worthwhile) $369.00

To break the mold on hearing conservation safety, or perhaps to just crack it slightly, the producers liken the ear under assault of noise to the bridge of a complex space ship or similar vehicle. The crew is under siege and is responding desperately to a grave situation. Finally, the noise-exposed individual puts on hearing protection and all is well. Beyond that, the program elements in this film are rather conventional, and certainly competent.

Hearing testing and how we hear are summarized using a very simplified animation. A basic discussion of decibels is presented along with the fact that both on and off-job exposures can be dangerous. We are told the signs of hearing loss (confusion of similar sounds, talking too loudly, tinnitus), followed by a review of baseline and annual audiograms, along with an indication of when HPDs are necessary. Instructions are provided for use of hearing protection. With the exception of the fact that foam earplugs are classified as disposable (meaning, according to the producer, that they must be replaced daily), the information is acceptable.

Accompanying the film is an extensive package including a three-ring binder with a summary of OSHA 1910.95, information on how to comply with the law and how to create a written program, and a sample employee pamphlet. The film is available close captioned and in Spanish. Additional employee training pamphlets can be ordered. Free previews are available.


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CRM Film (619) 431-9800 (800) 421-0833

2215 Faraday Avenue

Carlsbad, CA 92008

Death Be Not Loud (26 min., ©1971, Worthwhile) $99.00

This film concentrates on environmental noise. It begins with anecdotal interviews with New York City residents, then focuses on noise in suburbia, especially airport noise. It includes interviews with Dr. Rosen re: noise and blood pressure and animal studies. Also interviewed are Drs. Lebo and Oliphant re: music and PTS. The film illustrates how to monitor noise through examples such as a Connecticut highway noise monitoring project. A visit is made to a sleep shop where a variety of methods to aid sleep are demonstrated, including personal hearing protection. Also included is an example of successful noise reduction on Boeing jet engines.

The film presents a very biased view of extra-auditory effects of noise, implying that these effects are confirmed and serious. Furthermore, the producers suggest that noise control methods are simple (which they are not) and that there is no excuse for a noisy society.

The film may be rented for a 3 day period at a cost of $55.00. If purchased within 90 days, the rental cost may be applied toward the purchase price.


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Dalloz Safety (800) 354-4112

PO Box 622 Reading PA 19603-0622

SOS (12 min., ©1980, Recommended) $35.00

This film is quite a treat. An excellent sound track and graphics choreographed by a montage of shapes, colors, and action invite the viewer to sit back and enjoy. As the introductory activity subsides, we are introduced to George, a 38-year-old metal worker with a significant noise-induced hearing loss. With George as a vehicle, the film illustrates for us the handicap that a hearing loss creates.

The film poses many questions, hopefully generating thought and concern with the viewers. "How well will you be able to hear if...?" And of course, the film provides hints at what the future may hold if we don't protect our hearing -- having to guess what others are saying, being left out of the action, feeling alienated, and other wrenching emotional experiences that are the lot of the hearing impaired.

But why don't people protect their hearing? There are the common excuses that have already destroyed the hearing of countless workers - I'm too old, I won't be able to hear my co-workers, HPDs are irritating, they give me headaches, and I'm used to noise - and we hear these justifications repeated by a determined group of industrial employees.

To respond to those excuses, to show us just how weak they are, we are then taken on a fanciful trip into the cochlea, where a group of engaging singing (animated) hair cells explain in a humorous and entertaining manner how they work, how they are hurt and destroyed by noise, and how their loss creates a hearing handicap. The cells also respond in a very creditable manner to all the reasons for not wearing hearing protection that were voiced earlier.

The film concludes with the hair cells successfully motivating the worker, in whose ear they reside, to use his hearing protectors. They rejoice in song, and the narrator concludes by reminding us it's never too late to wear our protectors, and by asking us to please "give your hearing a chance to serve you for the rest of your life." Give this film your consideration, it's worth your time.


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E·A·R/Hearing Protection Products (800) 225-9048

8001 Woodland Drive

Indianapolis, IN 46268

ATTN: Customer Service

The following six films are available as a set for $25.00. Sound of Sound is also available as part of a set of three safety films for $25.00. The other two films on eye and respiratory protection are entitled You Bet Your Eyes and A Breath of Fresh Air.

It's Up To You (12 min., ©1976, Worthwhile) 2 WEEK FREE LOAN

Car crashes and an exploding ear model get this hearing conservation presentation off to an exciting start. Snapshot profiles follow, of occupational workers who have lost their hearing health due to noise. Then, in quick succession various scenes, sans sound, dramatize the impact of hearing loss and the importance of our hearing sense.

The film's guide introduces us to HPDs in his safety office and stresses the fact that none of them can protect our hearing unless they are properly fitted and worn. He then enters a large antechamber and climbs into a 20-foot model ear. The model is used to illustrate basic ear anatomy, and more to the point of the film, to demonstrate how protectors fit into and seal in and around the ear - as seen from the inside of the earcanal. Various types of plugs and also earmuffs are discussed with the potential drawbacks illustrated, albeit in a manner biased towards the advantages of foam earplugs. We also experience the type of earcanal distortion (due to motion of the temporomandibular joint) that is created by chewing and talking.

The film ends with additional motivational exhortations regarding protecting one's hearing, accompanied by a few too many implications of the dire extra-auditory effects resulting from exposure to noise. The dramatic presentation is intended to grab the viewer by his or her ossicles.

Less Than A Minute (6 min., ©1979, Worthwhile) 2 WEEK FREE LOAN

Produced primarily as a promotional vehicle for E·A·R Plugs, this film nevertheless is couched in the framework of a short motivational piece describing the insidiousness of noise-induced hearing loss, or as the film terms it, hearing "accidents." Following introductory remarks about hearing "accidents," the film turns to a brief tour of E·A·R headquarters and laboratories (circa 1979), a description of the care and quality involved in the manufacture of E·A·R Plugs, and a demonstration of how to properly insert them. The film closes with admonishments about the importance of protecting ourselves from the invisible enemy -- noise.

How to Use Expandable Foam Earplugs (6 min., ©1983, Recommended) 2 WEEK FREE LOAN

This is a straightforward, unadorned, training film. E·A·R’s Senior Scientist of Auditory Research demonstrates how to correctly fit and use E·A·R ® Classic Plugs. This is accomplished via demonstrations, close-ups, and animation. Suggestions on evaluating fit and avoiding common fitting problems are also discussed. This is the only hearing conservation film of which I am aware that gives a thorough, precise, and fully comprehensive visualization of how to use E·A·R Plugs.

What the film lacks in excitement is compensated for by the accuracy and clarity of the presentation. This film is especially designed for those intending to train users, since it may be a bit dry for the users themselves. Excerpts from this film, especially the animated sequences, can be effectively inserted in customized training films that others may wish to prepare.

(cont. next page)


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E·A·R / Hearing Protection Products(cont.)

The National Hearing Quiz (28 min., ©1983, Recommended) 2 WEEK FREE LOAN

Don Wescott, a noted narrator of educational documentaries, is the host for this question and answer film, primarily intended for public television and general education. Basic acoustics, hearing, hearing damage and hearing protection are illustrated through the use of interesting analogies and visual images.

This film is available for purchase from Walter J. Klein Company, Ltd. Box 2087, Charlotte, NC 28211 (704-542-1403) for $50.00 plus $5.00 shipping.

Listen Up With Norm Crosby (17 min., ©1983 Recommended) 2 WEEK FREE LOAN

A cast of actors and celebrities (Ed Asner, Bill Murray, Larry Brown, Charlene Tilton, Hank Aaron and others) discuss noise, its pervasiveness in society, its dangers, and how to protect ourselves from it. It contains some fine scenes with dramatic impact that illustrate the stupidity of not wearing hearing protection when exposed to harmful high level noise. This film was produced by the Better Hearing Institute with the support of E·A·R/Hearing Protection Products. It is no longer available from the Better Hearing Institute since they have released a new film, People vs. Noise (©1993), reviewed elsewhere in this list, which is essentially a remake of Listen Up ... with new celebrities, slightly revised information, and a harder sales pitch for the virtues of hearing aids.

Sound of Sound (16 min., ©1970, Recommended) 2 WEEK FREE LOAN

Sound of Sound is one of the earliest hearing conservation films included in this listing. Nevertheless its style and message are as relevant today as when it was first released nearly 30 years ago. Although the film does briefly review some of the basics of noise and hearing conservation such as what sound is and how it damages our hearing, its focus is on motivation. The viewer does not get bogged down in unnecessary technical details, but rather can concentrate on the theme of the film, as is cogently summarized in one of the narrator's closing remarks, "The sound of sound, what is it worth?"

The heart of the film is numerous segments of interviews with employees in noisy industries, employees who have suffered noise-induced hearing loss as a result of their occupational exposures. The film creates some interesting metaphors such as "taking the sound out of sound," is like "taking the color out of vision" and having a hearing loss is "like being lost in a place by myself," and coins some descriptive terms such as "soundburn" to indicate how a hearing loss is like a sunburn.

The workers who are interviewed speak candidly of their occupational deafness - their tinnitus, inability to hear loved ones and the enjoyable sounds of life, their loneliness and frustration, and how hearing loss negatively impacts the quality of life. They strongly support the film's basic message: "Keep the hearing you've got. Wear the proper hearing protection."

This film has won the Highest Honors of the National Committee on Films for Safety, the Film Festival Award for Medicine and Health (24th Nat. Conf. Pub. Relations Society of America), and the Gold Medal of the International Film and TV Festival of New York.


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ERI (800) 333-8822 557 (803) 356-4880

Whiteford Way

Lexington, SC 29072

Using Hearing Protection (14 min., ©1982, Recommended) $195.00

This is a motivational film (originally titled Noise? You’re in Control) to get employees to use hearing protection. It was produced to assist companies in complying with the training requirements of the OSHA Noise Standard. The film is not a complete training program on its own, since it lacks details on the attenuation and fitting of HPDs and a complete discussion of audiometric testing. These deficiencies are pointed out in the very good Leader's Implementation Guide that is supplied with the film. The guide discusses how to use the film both for new hires and for experienced employees. It also contains an outline and script of the film.

The movie was filmed in numerous industrial environments representing a variety of potential noise problems.

OUTLINE OF FILM CONTENT

Intro: hearing protection is important.
Why? Because noise is powerful!
Noise attacks hearing.
Protection can be achieved with hearing protection devices.
What is hearing loss?
Basics of measuring sound.
How do you know if there is a noise problem?
What will the company do about the problem?
What types of hearing loss can noise cause?
How much of a handicap is a noise induced hearing loss?
Can someone with normal hearing imagine how it feels?
Summary: how do we control hearing loss?
Conclusion.

This film can be rented for a 5-days for $99.00 or for 1 month for $125.00. If purchased within 30 days after renting, the rental fee can be applied to the purchase price. This film may be ordered with a purchase order.


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Encyclopedia Britannica (800) 621-3900 (312) 347-7000

Education Corporation

310 S. Michigan Avenue

Chicago, IL 60604

ATTN: College Telemarketing

The Ears and Hearing (22 min., ©1969, Recommended) $79.00

This film describes the structure and function of the human ear and demonstrates the process by which sound waves from the environment are converted into electrochemical energy and perceived as sound. Two causes of deafness are reviewed and ways in which these malfunctions can be corrected are outlined. Excellent photography of a functioning middle ear and of middle ear surgery are included.

Noise Polluting the Environment (16 min., ©1971, Recommended) $79.00

Another noise and its effects film. There are others on the list that are more informative and more entertaining.

The films can be purchased using a purchase order number. Use the film's product number (The Ears and Hearing - 2824; Noise Polluting the Environment - 3045), when ordering.


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H.E.A.R Hearing Education and Awareness for Rockers 415-431-3277 (fax) 415-552-4296

50 Oak St., Suite 101

San Francisco, CA 94102

Can’t Hear You Knocking (17 min., © 1990, Recommended) $39.95

H.E.A.R has become the ultimate purveyor of info to the rock community about the hazards of playing and listening to high-level music. The very polished and well-produced film provides technical information and personal testimonials from many prominent music entertainers as well as professional audiologists and sound engineers. The film is high energy, fast paced, and convincing. H.E.A.R presents both sides of the picture - why is volume so enticing so “beautiful” and why can it be harmful?

We learn interesting historical notes such as: 30 years ago the Beatles went on stage with a piddling 100 watts of amplifier power, but today groups like Springstein use entire rooms of amplifiers that provide upwards of 100,000 watts of muscle. We also learn some hearing tips, such as, if you have to shout to be heard the noise may be harmful for regular exposures, if an exposure gives you tinnitus it may be damaging, and if your hearing is muffled after exposure that means you have a threshold shift.

Entertainers featured in the film include, Ray Charles, Pete Townshend, Huey Lewis, Ted Nugent, Lars Ulrich of Metallica, Mickey Hart of the Grateful Dead, musician and producer Todd Rundgren, Markey Ramone of the Ramones, promoter Bill Graham, and of course H.E.A.R’s Co-Founder and Executive Director, Kathy Peck. The acoustical side of the equation is represented by scientist Mead Killion, and audiologists, Thomas Fay and Judy Montgomery.

Perhaps my favorite quote is from Ray Charles, who in recalling one time that he permitted himself an auditory overexposure, discussed his fear: “I promised God and two or three other responsible people that I would never do that again …”

“Can’t Hear You…” won the 1993 East Bay Media Award for best education video. It is also available in a 55-minute version through The Cinema Guild, New York, NY. Groups wishing to preview the film or obtain a quote for quantity discounts should contact H.E.A.R. to make their special requests.


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The Hearing Rehabilitation Foundation 617-628-4537

Damage Your Hearing and It Won’t Come Back (10 min., © 1995, Recommended) $35.00

There are few good children’s films on hearing conservation, and only a handful of them are tolerable for adults. This is one of those few and it may afford you a chuckle or two, regardless of age. The master of ceremonies is a wacked-out screwball with impossible frizzed-out long white hair. He speaks in an Australian accent, since the film is an Australian production, courtesy of Australian Hearing Services which is affiliated with the National Acoustic Laboratories of that country. The US version has been translated to our VHS format.

The film provides many quick clips of slices of life, heard with and without hearing loss, and then follows with a very kids-oriented description of the hearing mechanism. All video shots are quick in the 90s way of flashing glimpses before your eyes, and throughout we are continually pumped with the rap-music beat of “if you lose it, it won’t come back … it won’t come back.” The film does get this point across.

Some brief interviews with musicians and a DJ illustrate the problems of hearing loss and an audio demonstration, albeit a bit exaggerated, is also included.

The only drawback of the film is that it is short on advice, i.e. how do you tell when it is too loud, and what should you do if it is? This is understandable since the film is targeted primarily at grade school and perhaps high school age children and the principal theme seems to be to up their awareness of the problem.


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House Ear Institute (213) 483-4431

2100 W. Third St., 5 th Floor

Los Angeles, CA 90057

HIP Talk (34 min., ©1992, Recommended) $89.95

It has been difficult to find videos specifically directed at teenagers, or those exposed to nonoccupational noise. HIP Talk, which is part of the House Ear Institute's Hearing is Priceless campaign, fills that void ... and does it admirably. (For another film of this ilk, see Hear Today, Hear Tomorrow).

HIP Talk "reads" more like an MTV video than a safety film. It is presented in a talk-show format, moderated by rock correspondent/TV personality, Nina Blackwood. With her on stage are Jeff "Skunk" Baxter of the Doobie Brothers, Miranda Alcott a jazz artist, and musicians Michael Stanley and Tommy "Mugs" Cain. Nina is also accompanied by Doc Severinson, Pink Floyd's Scott Page, and others, by way of short up-close MTV type interviews. The audience, composed of teenagers participates by way of apropos questions that they put to Nina and the musicians.

Nina and her guests talk about tinnitus, loudspeaker placement, how the audio mix at a concert works, various sources of non-music related noise, and the difficulties of overcoming peer pressure. The film stresses each musician's personal viewpoint on the value of their hearing and how noise-induced hearing loss has affected them. We learn that hearing aids can't restore lost hearing to its original pristine condition, and of equal importance that it is not possible to identify in advance, individual who are especially noise susceptible.

Steve Otto, a research audiologist with the House group is in the audience and is called upon from time to time to provide technical explanations, although the film (to its credit) goes light on such stuff. Steve presents an excellent short audio/video demonstration of degrees of noise-induced hearing loss by way of a Flintstone’s cartoon which is suitably muffled by filtering.

The only down sides of the film are that it is a bit long (it could be edited more tightly) and that it contains a few misstatements and exaggerations, such as Miranda Alcott's absurd comment that the hair of front-row concert attendees can flutter in the "wind" from the high sound output of a band's loudspeakers.

If you have young children, or if you work with school-age kids, this may be an excellent and professionally produced video to get them thinking about the serious problem of noise in our society. In spite of my opinion, I must sadly report that in individual "test screenings," teenagers I have shown it too did not react with great enthusiasm. The film is accompanied by elementary school and junior-high and high-school lesson plans, charts, questionnaires, and 400 pairs of foam earplugs, and is packaged in a politically-correct container made from recycled fibers. Get with it, and get HIP!


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Howard Leight Industries (310) 396-3838 1330

Colorado Avenue

Santa Monica CA 90404

Maxman, Defender of Hearing (7 min. ©1998, Worthwhile) Free / limited supply

If you are looking for a unique 3-D graphic animated cartoon in the visual style of the film Toy Story, (but not with all the quality and pizazz that Hollywood can offer) this may be the hearing video for you. Maxman, defender of hearing is an animated Howard Leight earplug that leads us, actually flies us, through light-hearted, fast-faced examples of the importance of hearing, examples of noise levels, ear anatomy, and the effects of noise. Maxman concludes with the message - “wear your hearing protection.”

The film is short and to the point - but if you are looking for coverage of broader hearing conservation issues and OSHA compliance you will need to look elsewhere. However, the film would be a fine complement to a lecture which could accompany the film to provide discussion of issues such as audiometry and selection and fitting of hearing protection, while the film itself was used to heighten awareness and “warm up” the audience.


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Industrial Hearing Service, Inc. (503) 761-1506

2801 S.E. 122nd Avenue

Portland, OR 97236

Caution - Hearing at Work (13 min., ©1983, Worthwhile)

$150.00 In this film all of the images are created by panning a camera over simplified cartoon-like drawings, accompanied by an interesting but overly dramatic and somewhat unsettling sound track, and a precise but terribly slow narration. The net result is clear and informational with the potential to lose the viewer's attention. Except that the content clearly relates to industrial hearing conservation programs, the film would be well suited to elementary or high school audiences.

The film begins with the message that noise can damage hearing and tries to answer the questions of "what is too long" and "what is too loud" by reviewing OSHA guidelines, i.e. an 8-hr. TWA of 90 dBA with a 5-dB trading relation. A lucid explanation of the difference between logarithmic and linear scales follows.

We are then told that unlike eyes, ears have no form of self protection and that the ears never sleep. The hearing mechanism is then described, accompanied by a simplified explanation of NIHL and presentation of the lawn (grass)/hair cell analogy. Basic audiometry is described as well as hearing evaluation procedures (which are unfortunately referred to as "tests").

HPDs are briefly discussed and categorized as plugs or muffs, with the admonition that selection is a personal choice, and that HPDs should have a good NRR, meaning at least 20 dB (the importance of this last recommendation is questionable). A brief discussion of fitting practice is included with reference to the importance of pulling the pinna and the recommendation that whenever sound levels exceed 85 dBA, hearing protection should be worn.

The rating of the film is dependent upon the viewer's reaction to the particular style that has been chosen for presentation of the visual images. We gave the film the benefit of the doubt.


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Industrial Training Systems Corp.(ITS) (800) 568-8788

Division of Primedia Workplace Learning

1303 Marsh Lane

Carrollton, TX 75006

Hear Today, Gone Tomorrow (12 min., ©1986, Worthwhile) $445

Hear Today, Gone Tomorrow is a short, business-like film that covers the basics of hearing conservation, including how the ear works, how sound levels are measured, that loss is gradual, you don't get used to noise, and the standard aspects of a hearing conservation program including monitoring, engineering controls, hearing protection, audiometry, and training. The problem is, we've heard it all before and this film doesn't package the information in an exciting or imaginative manner to capture the viewer's attention. A much better production is one of Industrial Training's other films, No Second Chance, which is reviewed below.

Hear Today does include a reasonably thorough review of fitting hearing protectors. However, we are told that plugs and muffs are about equal in their noise-reducing capabilities (this is true in the real world as long as we are talking about foam earplugs) and that the protection amounts to about 25 dB (certainly an exaggeration if real-world data are being considered).

For ordering information and a discussion of the accompanying leader's guide, see below.

Noise-Induced Hearing Loss: No Second Chance (17 min., ©1992, Recommended) $575

Testimonials from those who have been there can be an effective means to grab the audience's attention and hopefully compel them to act. In a classic hearing conservation film, Sound of Sound (see E·A·R/Hearing Protection Products films) this method was implemented effectively using the worker-on-the-job. However, 1970's materials are stale by today's standards. No-Second Chance incorporates the same concept, but with a famous personality - three-time Indianapolis 500 winner, Bobby Unser. He is accompanied by others who have made the mistake of taking their hearing for granted. In addition to Bobby, the host of the film is TV-celebrity, Dr. Timothy Johnson, best know for his segments on ABC's 20/20 News Show.

Bobby leads off with comments about why he never wore HPDs during his years of racing (they weren't commonly used and it wasn't macho), how his life has been impacted by noise-induced hearing loss, and numerous mentions of his seriously hearing-impaired brother Al Unser (himself a four-time '500' winner). Steel workers, shipbuilders, and a musician tell the same story. We learn of the embarrassment and anguish of not being able to hear when others can, and of the intrusiveness of noise-induced tinnitus that often accompanies noise-induced hearing loss

The film, which covers the primary topics required in an OSHA HCP training program is organized as follows:

(cont. next page)


E·A·R 82-10/HP Page - 22

Industrial Training Systems Corp. (cont.)

No Second Chance is generally accurate and does not exaggerate. For example, we are clearly told that NIHL does not cause total deafness, but it does significantly interfere with the ability to communicate. Dr. Johnson provides examples of sound levels, an audio demonstration of tinnitus, reviews the time-trading relationship, and includes a clear discussion of how the ear works, accompanied by rather mediocre animated illustrations. The section of fitting HPDs is short, reviewing earmuffs, and premolded and foam earplugs. The information provided, though insufficient for a complete user training, is accurate and useful.

The film closes with discussion of nonoccupational sources of noise exposure such as music, shooting, and the use of power tools and the warning to protect one's ears at all times. One of the noise-exposed workers who has lost his hearing exhorts us to remember that "Hearing loss need not be the price you pay!"

No Second Chance is a complete film with excellent content and attractively "packaged." It is well worth considering for a hearing conservation training program.

Both of Industrial Training's titles are accompanied by a Leader's Guide, including topics for review, and a quiz. Appropriately, the guides state that the films will assist in meeting the training requirements of OSHA but must be considered only one part of a comprehensive training program. The films are available in VHS, in both English and Spanish, for the costs shown above. They can be rented for three days for $95.00, or ten days for $175.00. Cost of rental can be applied to purchase price. Five- to seven-day free previews are also available.


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Interactive Media Communications (781) 890-7707

204 Second Ave. Waltham, MA 02154

Hearing Conservation Training Program (17 min., © 1996, Worthwhile) $325.00

This program is a competent, but unexciting review of the basic components of an OSHA-compliant hearing conservation program. It begins by reminding us that noise is part of our daily lives and telling us that this program is designed to increase understanding of noise and its control and how we, the viewers, can take responsibility to protect ourselves. The film is narrated by an off-screen voice and we are also educated by Brian Hartely, IH, and Dr. Clair Cox, Occup. Physician, as on-screen personalities.

The film is segmented by screen banners indicating, Lesson 1, Lesson 2, etc. At least one viewer on our panel was completely turned off by that school-room type of approach. Unfortunately, even though the film was organized into lessons, the organization was difficult to follow and redundant in parts.

Materials covered included level, pitch, NIHL, sound generation, noise barriers, how we hear and lose our hearing, and a review of OSHA guidelines. HPD fitting was segmented into “two basic types” and unfortunately the fitting demonstrations included many unintentional examples of poorly fitted foam plugs. Other topics covered included sound measurements, audiograms, engineering controls.

The film is accompanied by a pamphlet with additional information and a “final exam.” It is available for a 2- week preview and volume discounts are provided.


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International Film Bureau, Inc. (312) 427-4545

332 S. Michigan Avenue

Chicago, IL 60604

Listen While You Can (21 min., ©1972, Worthwhile) $425.00

This film is directed at the layman in order to provide information and motivation to protect hearing. A simulation of noise-induced hearing loss demonstrates that it involves more than reduced sensitivity. To help understand this, the film employs animation to define sound and to illustrate the construction of the ear. The animation of a functioning ear is presented very well. This leads to the types of ear damage (some of which do not heal) and the kinds of noise conditions that are dangerous. Tests for measuring hearing ability and means of protecting the ear from damage are shown. The main point of the film is that noise damage is a sure route to incurable deafness, but that such deafness is unnecessary because there are simple precautions for avoiding it.

This film was produced by Stewart Hardy Films for Ministry of Defense (Navy Dept.), United Kingdom. The American version was prepared by International Film Bureau, Inc.

Hearing Conservation (22 min., ©1972, Worthwhile) $425.00

A typical dangerous noise environment is used to study the problems of noise-induced hearing loss, noise reduction, and hearing conservation. First, noise must be measured and evaluated; the film defines noise, explains the factors determining its hazard, and indicates damage risk criteria. The two types of noise reduction are then considered and compared: reduction at source and direct protection of ears. Finally, the film illustrates the discovery and measurement of noise-induced hearing loss. The emphasis in this film is on preventing hearing loss, and if it has already occurred, on discovering it before it affects normal hearing or speech. This film was produced by Stewart Hardy Films for Ministry of Defense (Navy Dept.), United Kingdom.

NOTE: Both of these films incorrectly state that "muffs offer better protection than plugs."

Noise (22 min., ©1981, Recommended) $425.00

This film is a comprehensive well-executed primer on noise and hearing. It contains very good descriptions (with animation) of sound, frequency, level, and how the ear works. Understandable explanations of "3-dB trading," A-weighing, dosimetry and audiometry follow, with comments regarding typical presbycusis vs. noise induced audiograms.

The last segment of the film reviews source/path/receiver concepts with some poorly thought-out examples that, in general, are not of the caliber of the preceding portion of the film. Produced by the National Coal Board, England.

The above 3 films can each be rented for $60.00 a week.


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International Medifilms (818) 386-1818

14155 Magnolia Blvd., Ste. 334

Sherman Oaks, CA 91423

ATTN: Mr. Gerald Price

Hearing, the Forgotten Sense (18 min., ©1968, Worthwhile) $295.00

The purpose of this film is to orient management, supervisory personnel, and employees toward noise situations and to provide incentive for all levels of employment to prevent personal hearing loss. It applies not only to work situations, but to home activities as well.

In this film, the audience participates in a non-technical hearing sensitivity test. This test shows how hearing levels vary and the need for hearing conservation. This film contends that hearing is literally the "forgotten sense." It instructs the audience that hearing loss is painless and shows no visible signs of damage. In its attack on carelessness and complacency, at work and home, this film becomes an ideal reinforcement for "Hear: It Takes Two."

Hear: It Takes Two (20 min., ©1979, Worthwhile) $295.00

The purpose of this film is to motivate employees to use hearing protection provided by management. It makes each employee aware of their individual responsibility in this area and shows how hearing loss affects the worker, his or her family, and his or her work. It verifies that hearing loss goes undetected until damage is permanent.

This film consists primarily of interviews with many different noise-exposed persons who contend that hearing protection is an acceptable and practical method of preventing industrial hearing loss. Actual workers tell of their hearing problems and how these problems occurred. They discuss actual problems in private and work life occasioned by hearing loss. At the end of the film, a short sequence discusses the danger signs of excessive noise exposure and how to protect against it.


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Media Resources Inc. (800) 666-0106 (206) 693-3344

2614 Fort Vancouver Way

Vancouver, WA 98661-3997

Hearing Protection (19 min., ©1993, Worthwhile) $249.00

The film's title is somewhat misleading. Although the topic of hearing protection is dealt with in great detail for a video of this nature, the scope is much more broad - as comprehensive in fact as any hearing conservation training film you are likely to find. The down side is that the breadth of content of the film, combined with its myriad details, makes for a rather dry presentation. It lacks a creative spark or theme/concept to give it sparkle. The film's outline, which corresponds to the three OSHA-required training topics, is as follows:

Hearing Protection begins with a weak attempt to grab the viewer - scenes of life's important events with sounds, and then presented in silence. We are then off and running with mention of the OSHA Noise Standard and a statement of the purpose of the film - teaching the viewer how to prevent NIHL.

The explanation of the function of the ear, including animation, is well presented, and many of the other discussions are creditable such as a warning that you don't get used to noise, that NRRs are based on lab data and hence overestimate attenuation achieved in practice, and suggestions on methods of controlling noise in the workplace.

The bulk of the film, targeted of course to the employee, addresses hearing protection. Much of it deals with fitting hearing protectors, and although the presentations are extended they are insufficient to properly demonstrate use of the products. Sometimes, as well, the information provided is inaccurate. Furthermore, detailed fitting instructions are best provided one-on-one, in person, and not via a videotape. The biggest shortcoming of this portion of the film is the extreme exaggeration of the need for cleaning hands before wearing HPDs, and for maintaining HPDs in clean condition. We even see a person in rubber gloves disassembling an earmuff and washing it in a large stainless steel sink!

They are many other minor inaccuracies in the HPD portion of the film, but one other that deserves mention is the confusing description of active sound transmission HPDs. The film implies that such devices can improve speech intelligibility in noise; they generally do not. Rather, they improve intelligibility during the quiet periods when the noise is not present.

The final section of the film on audiometry is again rife with detail, but once more includes a few key misleading facts. Employees are told to always assure themselves of 14 hours of no noise exposure prior to audiograms when in fact this is only recommended for the pre-placement audiogram. We also see an employee enter the audiometric test booth, reach for his own earphones, and then take a test face-to-face

(cont. on next page)


E·A·R 82-10/HP Page - 27

Media Resources, Inc. (cont.)

with the examiner. No doubt this happens in practice, but it is certainly not to be condoned or recommended.

A useful adjunct to this film, which is becoming more common in the safety field, is the provision of an instructor's guide and a study guide. The film is available for loan $14.95 plus shipping and handling charges.


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Mine Safety Appliances Co. (412) 967-3000

Customer Service

121 Gamma Drive

Pittsburgh, PA 15238

Now Hear This (15 min., ©1984, Recommended) $75.00 Mini-seminar $39.95 Videotape

MSA has put together a fine film that focuses on three aspects of hearing conservation: noise surveys, audiometry, and hearing protection. A description of the auditory mechanisms (a bit hard to follow) and the progression of noise-induced hearing loss are also presented. The film intersperses two formats - an on-screen narrator, and dramatization of the implementation of a new hearing conservation program at Century Manufacturing. This allows the presentation of straightforward didactic information, as well as a more informal approach as the hearing conservationists in the dramatization respond to very real and sometimes negative attitudes, jokes, and comments of the employees regarding the new program.

The film presents one of the best sections available on the fitting and use of hearing protectors. Sample products are clearly filmed and correctly used. One drawback of this part of the film is that it is aimed specifically at MSA products so one of the most important and popular types of hearing protectors, foam earplugs, are not covered. Another is that it tends to overemphasize the need for cleanliness and washing of earplugs and earmuffs.

Although clear, easy to follow, and full of useful comments, this film is not a strong motivational instrument. However, it is short enough that it can be accompanied by motivational information presented by a trainer. For those exclusively or primarily using MSA products, the hearing protector demonstrations will be exceptionally useful.

This production is also available as a Mini-Seminar in a carton consisting of 80 slides in Kodak Carousel Tray, with two audio tape cassettes (inaudible pulse and audible signals). The videotape can be previewed or rented for a 10-day use period for $10.00 plus shipping and the Mini-Seminar for $25.00 plus shipping.


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Natl. Inst. on Deafness and other Communication Disorders

NIDCD Clearinghouse (800) 241-1044 (voice) (800) 241-1055 (TDD/TT)

P. O. Box 37777

Washington, DC 20013-7777

I Love What I Hear! (8 min., 1991, Worthwhile) FREE

Have you noticed the dearth of films on noise and hearing conservation targeted at the under-10 crowd? Apparently our government did because the prestigious NIDCD created a film just for such an audience - grades 3 - 6. So if that's your constituency, you may wish to consider this film in spite of its drawbacks. (Or check out other options, Quiet Pleases III; Hear Today, Hear Tomorrow; and for a slightly older crowd, HIP Talk.)

Five kids of varied racial background (and drawn from the target age group) open the show by singing a rap piece about noise and hearing. One of them, about age 10, then becomes our on-screen narrator and guide. He poses questions such as "What do you hear?", "What is sound?", "What is good/bad sound?", and "What is noise?" This is basic and important material, germane to the film topic, but answered with mediocre animated graphics, mildly inaccurate information, and/or confusing descriptions. For example the guide tries to explain why noise need not be painful to be potentially damaging, but in so doing confusingly talks about how the pain receptors are in the middle ear and noise damage occurs in the inner ear. More lucid and simple explanations would probably be appropriate for the intended audience.

When we are told that everyday noise may cause hearing damage, the auditory examples are a stereo, vacuum cleaner, TV, dishwasher, blender, hair dryer, and fire engine. It is certainly pushing a point, and the narrator's credibility, to claim that items potentially as quiet as a dishwasher cause hearing damage.

When measures of protection are discussed, the only comment concerning hearing protection is how no kid would ever consider wearing it to a concert. The guide never tells of the value of hearing protection or that it may sometimes be important to use it. He only talks in vague terms of avoiding the noise.

The film closes with the narrator doing a solo of the rap piece on noise - nicely done and upbeat.

The paucity of films of this genre, the price (free for the asking) and the graphically pleasing teachers' guide make this a package worth considering, in spite of the aforementioned drawbacks.


E·A·R 82-10/HP Page - 30

OSHA Office of Information (202) 219-8148

U. S. Department of Labor

200 Constitution Avenue NW Room N-3647

Washington, DC 20210

Industrial Noise (10 min., ©1982, Worthwhile) FREE LOAN

The principal intent of this film is to demonstrate the feasibility and value of engineering noise controls in an industrial environment. The example that OSHA uses is 13 wire drawing machines at the Ray Magnet Co. in Virginia. The noise levels are 95 dBA.

The film begins with employee interviews to demonstrate the noxious and hazardous effects of daily occupational exposure to high noise levels. The film reviews CFR 1910.95 paragraphs a) and b) which mandate engineering noise controls when the TWA is greater than 90 dBA. In this regard the film is not current since no mention is made of the Hearing Conservation Amendment or the acceptability of hearing protection devices as a control measure.

The film describes how the machines were redesigned by replacement of the gear drive mechanisms with belt drives and addition of new bearing lubrication systems. The cost was $10,000/machine for a measured noise reduction of 10 dBA. The employees and management are then further interviewed to substantiate the success of the controls in terms of a better work environment and more efficient machinery operation. This videotape is available on a free-loan basis from OSHA.


E·A·R 82-10/HP Page - 31

Pennsylvania State University (814) 865-6364

Applied Research Laboratory

P.O. Box 30

State College, PA 16804

ATTN: Karen Brooks

Simple Harmonic Motion (17 min., ©1978, Recommended) $200.00

High-school/college level tutorial which explains the concepts of phase, amplitude and frequency and demonstrates simple harmonic motion using real-world objects.

Sound Field in Rectangular Enclosures (14 min., ©1978, Worthwhile) $180.00

Very technical, moderately informative computer generated film. The title tells it all. Color is used to represent pressure in a 3-dimensional simulation of normal modes, where the modes are depicted separately and in various combinations.

A Brief Colloquy on Acoustic Diffraction (12 min., ©1978, Not viewed) $160.00 Presents theoretical diffraction of sound by a barrier with various degrees of absorption, and identifies the shadow boundary and other concepts.

The Process of Holography (10 min., ©1978, Not viewed) $150.00

College level tutorial explaining how plane and spherical waves combine to form a wave front, and the cause of the three components in the reconstruction.

These four computer-generated films can be previewed for a fee of $30.00. Since only a limited number of preview copies are available, it is advisable to make preview requests for particular dates as far in advance as possible. When ordering please specify: film; optical or magnetic sound; if preview, dates needed; if purchase, number of copies. Payment must be made by check in advance to The Graduate Program in Acoustics, Penn State University.

These films have been reviewed in greater detail by Conrad Hemond [J. Acoust. Soc. Am. 65(5), 1352].


E·A·R 82-10/HP Page - 32

Pyramid Media (800) 421-2304 2801 fax (310) 453-9083

Colorado Ave. www.pyramidmedia.com

Santa Monica, CA 90404

I Am Joe's Ear (24 min., ©1986, Worthwhile) $245.00

This film, the latest in the “I Am Joe” series based on the popular Reader's Digest articles, provides a general overview of the physiology and functions of the human ear. Through Joe's experiences with hearing loss caused by daily exposure to factory noise, the film points out that our ears must be protected from noise and injury in order to maintain normal hearing throughout our lives.

Once we are introduced to Joe, and his neighborhood and family at some length, the film commences with basic aural anatomy illustrated by good cartooning and animation sequences. We learn about the auricle, earcanal (including its fleshy lining and cerumen), as well as the ossicles and inner ear. The semicircular canals and equilibrium are also discussed, as are the effects of bone conduction especially upon the perception of one's own voice. We also learn about frequency and loudness.

A unique aspect of the film is its presentation of Joe's daily noise exposure from awakening until arrival at work, via a sound level scale that is superimposed on the screen. Joe is a supervisor and one of the few employees at his plant who doesn't wear hearing protection. He doesn't believe noise can hurt his ears, nor is he easily convinced that he already suffers from noise-induced hearing loss. He finally agrees to consult a specialist and we see him tested and learn of the results.

Earmuffs and earplugs are briefly described, along with an inaccurate explanation of how an earmuff reduces noise (its noise reduction is principally attributed to the earcup's foam lining, whereas it is primarily due to the cup itself).

Finally the film mentions the usefulness of hearing aids, and includes a general overview of ear care and hygiene, topics not normally addressed in other films we have reviewed.

The pace of the film is leisurely, perhaps overly slow in certain sequences. The quality of the filming is excellent as is the narration. The target audience is general health education and science from high school through adult. This film is not suitable for industrial hearing conservation programs.

This film is available for free preview and may be rented for three days for $75.00 plus shipping.


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The Safety Center (800) 899-1277

1800 E. Deer Ave.

Santa Ana, CA 92705

Hearing Protection (H155) (9 min., ©1990, Worthwhile) $145.00 member price $195.00 non-members

Although this film has a number of commendable features, one limitation and one shortcoming must be mentioned up front. The limitation is that the film, which was prepared by the Workers Compensation Board of British Columbia, is targeted toward those living in Canadian provinces where hearing protector attenuation is described by the Class ratings found in CSA Z94.2. Thus the A and B ratings of that standard are mentioned with no introduction and little explanation. This may confuse an American audience, or a Canadian audience in provinces that utilize the NRR.

The shortcoming is that this is a videotaped slide show and not truly a film. Although many of the graphics are well executed and interesting, films are generally are more effective at holding the audience's attention.

Hearing Protection is excellent because it is a short film focused on a particular topic. It describes hearing protectors (but oddly mentions only muffs and plugs, while neglecting semi-insert devices), the importance of wearing time, and then presents in a clear and useful manner, selection criteria. The emphasis is on the anatomical, environmental, and ergonomic factors, although attenuation is also considered.

Important points such as the fact that there is no universal earmuff or earplug are mentioned. The only technical flaw that was noted was the contention that liquid cushions conform to obstructions such as eyeglass temples, better than foam cushions. There is no evidence to support this, and in fact the reverse may well be true.

Earplugs are grouped into premolded, compressible (foam and fiberglass) and custom fitted categories and instructions for using both muffs and plugs are provided.

Hearing Protection concludes with a discussion of the importance of considering nonoccupational as well as occupational exposures.

Several membership levels are available providing free previews and reduced purchase prices. Contact The Safety Center for information.


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Sertoma International (816) 333-8300

1912 East Meyer Blvd.

Kansas City, MO 64132-1174

ATTN: Terri McCaffrey

Quiet Please III: Listen Up! For the Sound of Your Life (23 min., ©1989, Recommended) $150.00

Dedicated hearing conservationists have long been aware of the need for educational efforts for school-age children, so that young people have an awareness of the need for hearing protection before they enter the noise-exposed workforce. Few films address this issue. This one is an exception, as it is specifically targeted for grades 3 - 5. (For other films for young viewers see I Love What I Hear, Hear Today, Hear Tomorrow, and for a slightly older audience, HIP Talk.)

The narrator for this film is an animated guitar, Johnny. Johnny describes different types of sounds and the importance of our ears. In a unique segment of the film, Johnny asks us to close our eyes and to listen, so that we have an opportunity to become aware of all the information that our ears provide. We are even presented with recorded sounds (minus a visual image) and asked to identify them.

The film goes on to describe frequency/pitch and the use of oscilloscopes to depict sound waves, talks about decibels, ear anatomy including the earcanal and the importance of cerumen, and various ways in which we can damage our ears and/or lose our hearing. We are told to avoid putting anything in our ears (pencils, paper clips, toothpicks, fingers, etc.) which unfortunately contradicts a later statement about the value of wearing earplugs.

An important aspect of the film is its attempt to make children aware that hearing-impaired people should be treated as normal people.

Reviews from children aged 9 to 15 were mixed, although they all found the sound distorted, annoying, and for the younger ones, hard to understand. Few of the viewers found the film's attempts at humor to be genuinely funny. The oldest child thought parts were too simple and goofy ("the guitar's a dork!"). He would have preferred more technical details. The 12-year old enjoyed it, as did a 10-year old, but a 9-year old found it difficult to follow and a bit boring.

The film's drawbacks are that it covers too much ground, and as usual with hearing conservation films contains its share of inaccurate statements. It mentions nurses and physicians but fails to talk about audiologists. Although it stresses noise and hearing loss, the film spends only a brief moment on the importance of wearing hearing protection and when the use of such devices is recommended. And Johnny's distorted, raspy, and silly voice, is simply dreadful for adult ears!

This film can be purchased from Sertoma Headquarters and is available to Sertoma Club members for free loan.


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(produced by) US Army Environmental Hygiene Agency (202) 576-2413 or 576-2414

Bioacoustics Division

Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD

(available from) Dir. Audiology and Speech Ctr.

Walter Reed Army Medical Center

Washington, DC 20307-5001

ATTN: Rod Atack or Garnett Lancaster

Sounds of Combat (8 min., ©1989, Recommended) FREE

If you are in the armed forces and wonder why they make you wear hearing protection, this is the film for you. Although rather dry in terms of the presentation, the film is direct and to the point - wear hearing protection because it can preserve your hearing. This may save your life and improve the likelihood of successfully completing your combat missions.

The film begins and ends with Master Sergeant John Cavaiani describing the purpose of the film and the importance of wearing hearing protection. The bulk of the presentation consists of combat simulations which illustrate various scenarios in which good hearing is important, perhaps critical. These include:

To obtain copies of this film contact Walter Reed Medical Center at the address/phone above and provide them with a blank tape onto which they will copy the film.


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US Healthworks (816) 471-3900

1600 Genessee St, Suite 700

Kansas City, MO 64102

Play it by Ear (Spanish version only -10 min., ©1992, Recommended) $49.00

The producers of this film decided that they had enough of boring hearing conservation videos; they set out to have some fun. And it is the viewers' good fortune that they have, for the most part, succeeded. The video is of good quality with some quite humorous effects. The only down side is that the narrative is a voice over, throughout, when at times it would have been more convincing if the on-screen characters were actually speaking. The benefit is, however, that it is easy to edit the film for other languages and in fact a Spanish version is available, and it can also be ordered with open captioning.

The scenario begins with a supervisor, in an agitated manner, telling her employee Sam that she needs a good hearing conservation training film. He must, in short order, review a room full of tapes to find the best one. After checking out some real groaners, he gets the bright idea of creating his own video with a camcorder ... and then the fun and the film begins. Play it by ear is not only humorous, but is also successful at accurately conveying information. The viewer learns about the prevalence of hearing loss, some typical sound levels with which we are all familiar, and how the ear works. It is all presented in a light-hearted manner so as not to be stuffy and boring.

Sam tells us how important it is to protect our hearing, if only we follow his big three - choose 'em, use 'em, and don't abuse 'em. We then learn about muffs, foam plugs, and premolded plugs with useful information about each and accurate, albeit brief demonstrations of how to properly wear the devices. And to respond to the typical complaints that wearers may have, Sam provides useful insights, like "getting used to HPDs is like breaking in a new pair of shoes."

The film also presents a quick and adequate description of audiometry, but does suggest that employees need not worry if they can hear extraneous sounds during testing. Although this often may be the case, many times industrial audiometry is done in less than adequately quiet surroundings and perception of distracting or annoying sounds may be an indication that the thresholds will be masked.

Play it by ear concludes with a light-hearted goodbye from the employees who were filmed during the show. All in all, this is a worthwhile and humorous video for the definitive hearing conservation video library. Sounds

Good to Me (12 min., © 1997, Recommended) $149.00

And it sounds good to me, too. Impact has done it again - a safety film that’s fun to watch. Isn’t that incredible? Dan Weiser the Sound Advisor is a pretty crazy guy, patterned somewhat after Bill Nye, the Science Guy. The action is fast paced with lots of visuals and sounds and goofy jokes that will at least make you chuckle. Impact has captured the flavor of MTV and the video freneticism of the 90s to enliven what can be a deadly dull subject, and along the way they impart some useful information as well.

Dan tells us about waves, frequency, and intensity and then with a seriously silly anatomy lecture almost slips out of an earcanal (yes, they had to shrink the Sound Advisor for this one) because of earwax buildup. Whoops! But, in so doing, he does manage to squeeze in useful and sufficient information about anatomy and the effects of noise. This is followed by a segment on The lifestyles of the hard of hearing - imagine the possibilities.

(cont. next page)


E·A·R 82-10/HP Page - 37

US Healthworks (cont.)

For demonstrations of how to fit hearing protectors Dan uses actors who act like typical employees for a very casual and friendly approach - no pedantic lecturing here. Dan’s “staff” tells us about foam plugs, premolded plugs, muffs, and custom earmolds. Although there is a natural bias from the producer towards custom molds, the coverage is reasonably balanced, and except for the claim that custom molds last five years, and one or two other minor misstatements, accurate as well.

Dan then answers some important questions such as “how do I know if I need hearing protectors,” “which one is best,” and, “how important are the noise ratings?” The answers are simple and to the point. And then we get a quick light-hearted run through of audiometry.

So, instead of a detailed point-by-point description of an OSHA-required hearing conservation program, we are treated to the highlights, in fact you could call this film Hearing conservation lite, and that may be the best way to impart information to the typical employee who is jaded by the abundance of safety-related information that is thrown their way these days. Hats off to the Sound Advisor Dan and Impact for a job well done.

The film is available in English only and is available for a free 2-week preview.


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University of Hartford (860) 768-4100

College of Engineering

200 Bloomfield Avenue

West Hartford, CT 06117

Bob Sellmer

Quiet Please (20 min., © 1973, Worthwhile) FREE LOAN

A basic acoustics film that begins with what is sound and how we hear. Describes source-path-receiver and decibels. Comments upon and illustrates industrial noise, noise vs. health, community noise, jet noise, truck noise and general noise control procedures.

Film available on a Free Loan basis from the above address.


E·A·R 82-10/HP Page - 39

Brenda Aiken (734) 936-8901

University of Michigan

School of Nursing

400 N. Ingalls, Room 3182

Ann Arbor, MI 48109-0482

Take Control (40 min., © 1998, Worthwhile) [Not commercially available as of 8/98]

Take Control is one of the few films of which I am aware that grew out of a research grant - a NIOSH grant to the University of Michigan School of Nursing. A key finding of the research conducted by Sally Lusk, in the construction industry, was that workers who saw value in using HPDs, who perceived few barriers to using them and who felt confident about their ability to use them correctly had higher levels of use. This film embodies principles that were learned as a result of that project. Although based on th construction industry, the materials are generally applicable to all workers.

The film is part of a comprehensive package designed to train and motivate employees. The film comes with a script, training materials, employee pamphlets, and guidance on how to use the film as part of a training session.

The film is narrated by a “construction worker.” He begins by talking about the need to hear warning signals and the problems of blocking out unwanted sounds. He goes for the result of his screening audiogram, and the audiologist and he then have a dialog which is the opportunity for much of the film’s teachings. We learn how the ear works, that NIHL is permanent, that unlike glasses, HPDs don’t restore normal hearing, etc., and we get an audio comparison of the effects of NIHL.

Much information is provided on the selection of HPDs and the importance of personal preference. The nurse begins this part of the presentation with general information on fitting hearing protectors and some ideas on selection. Unfortunately she makes poor use of a clear life-size flexible ear model, such that she inappropriately demonstrates insertion of plugs and also fails to properly demonstrate a pinna pull (later in the film a proper demonstration is given). Many useful tips are provided such as the tug test, hum test, loudness test and the fact that poorly fitted plugs will hurt, feel loose, or fall out. The use of the E · A · R Roll Model is also mentioned and recommended.

Take Control continues with separate training sessions for premolded plugs, foam plugs, canal caps and earmuffs. Information particular to fitting each type of product is provided, followed by a replay of the video portion for that product, sans audio, so that the viewer can practice fitting the device. After the training portion of the film concludes, the narrator returns to interview some of his coworkers on their attitudes about hearing protection and suggestions they have that make it work for them. The film stresses taking control of your hearing by using hearing protection.

The film is 40 minutes in length and is intended to be used as part of an overall training program. Hence, it may or may not fit into the style and type of training used in your program. However, one could simply use the sections on fitting plugs, caps, muffs etc. and craft those portions into a customized video presentation.


E·A·R 82-10/HP Page - 40

University of Toronto (416) 978-8561

IMS Creative Communications

Faculty of Medicine

Kings College Circle Rm. 2370

Toronto, Ontario M5S 1A8

Let's Hear It with Dr. Peter Alberti (28 min., ©1980, Recommended) $378 Canadian

This film, which was produced in Canada and obviously targeted at Canadian audiences, is directed at a more advanced level than many others on the list. It is one of the more complete, and hence one of the longer, hearing conservation films. Although very well produced, the film, because its technical detail and length, would appear more suitable for management and hearing conservationists than for employee-participants in actual hearing conservation programs.

Following the obligatory discussion of the basics of sound and how we hear, we are shown an excellent scanning electron microphotograph of the cochlear hair cells. Unfortunately, the explanation accompanying the photo is somewhat lacking and thus those unfamiliar with the ear may not comprehend what is being viewed.

Noise control engineering options are then briefly summarized, and this leads into a discussion of the steps that the producer feels comprise a complete hearing conservation program: a) identify and measure the noise, using both SLMs and dosimeters, b) post signs in hearing-protection-required areas, c) select the proper HPDs from the two basic types, plugs and muffs, d) train the users, and e) provide follow-up training for the users. Virtually no mention is made of annual audiometric evaluations.

During the discussion of HPD selection, Dr. Peter Alberti, Professor of Otolaryngology at Mount Sinai Hospital, University of Toronto, describes some of his research and observations concerning the real-world performance of HPDs, stressing the fact that the theoretical (laboratory) attenuation is normally not achieved in practice. He discusses the time/trade relationship between level and duration of exposure.

Three types of earplugs are described, foam, fiberglass, and premolded, along with useful information about fitting and care. Later in the film, we are shown both group and individual hearing protector training sessions. Dr. Krista Riko, an audiologist, demonstrates how to train an employee on the use of a premolded earplug. One aspect missing from her demonstration, is a visual and/or otoscopic inspection of the ear that should precede the actual fitting of an earplug during any fitting session. She stresses the importance of employee follow-up to make sure employees are using the HPDs properly and aren't having any problems. She also points out and cautions against the numerous ways in which employees will modify (abuse) hearing protectors to enhance their comfort at the expense of attenuation.

The film closes with some good motivational comments and discussion of the fact that noise-induced hearing loss is not treatable and that hearing aids provide only limited help at best. We are given useful hints on matching HPDs to the specific job requirements in which they will be worn, and the importance of upper management's compliance in and support of the hearing conservation program is stressed.

The purchase price is $378.00 Canadian for video cassette. Payment may be made in the form of a check or a purchase order. Film may be rented from City Films, 542 Gordon Baker Road, Willowdale, Ontario M2H 3B4 (416) 499-1400 for a 3-day period for $50.00 plus shipping and U.S. Customs charges of $25.00 (if shipped to the United States).


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Williams Training Network (800) 338-1505 (301) 258-2500

910 Clopper Road

Gaithersburg, MD 20878-1399

Hearing Conservation (11 min., ©1993, Worthwhile) $450

Solid is the adjective that comes to mind for this film. Solid, but neither imaginative nor compelling. And like many of the recently released films on hearing conservation, the content is structured closely around the training requirements of the OSHA Hearing Conservation Amendment. The film features a believable, well- spoken on-screen narrator, who speaks clearly in simple direct language, providing the necessary information without too much detail. Hearing Conservation begins with an overview of the effects of noise and an explanation of dB, along with a lucid review of Action Level and the meaning of TWA. The film then goes on to examine noise measurements, audiometry (including discussion of baseline and annual audios as well as STS and 21-day notification). The discussion of HPDs is brief, which is fine since training in HPD fitting and use is best accomplished face-to-face with individual employees. However, one problem arises in discussion of the NRR. No mention is made of the lab/real-world discrepancies, so employees may be left with the belief that NRRs actually do indicate the amount of protection that they will receive in practice.

The film wraps up by making clear that the employee must be an active and willing participant in the hearing conservation program, i.e. that the ultimate responsibility to protect hearing lies with the employee.

This film is available for preview or for purchase at the prices listed. Discounts are provided when more than one film is purchased.


E·A·R 82-10/HP Page - 42

Workers’ Compensation Board of British Columbia (604) 276 3068

Films and Posters

Box 5350 Station Terminal

Vancouver, BC V6B 5L5 CANADA

The Hearing Video (17½ min., © 1997, Recommended) $149.99 (Canadian)

Hot. This film is very hot and au courant (circa 1997). If a safety video, produced in the style of a TV science show, can actually be fun to watch - this one’s it - tightly edited, humorous to the point of truly funny (well, at least it is for those who live and breathe hearing conservation), and accurate. As its flyer suggests, the film addresses the questions of who’s affected by hazardous noise, how do you choose the right hearing protection, and what’s the deal with the annual hearing test?

The narrator begins with a dramatic claim, one often expounded by the well-known hearing conservationist and motivational speaker, Don Gasaway; hearing is more precious than vision, and that its layers of sound and complexities and subtleties are often overlooked by those possessing this remarkable sense. In short order, we are then presented with sounds and their hazardousness, excellent ear animation/computer graphics to illustrate the innards of the hearing mechanism, and the oft used hair cell/lawn-of-grass analogy, but executed quite nicely.

Hazardous noise is defined as >85 dBA for 8 hours and we are presented many good industrial examples of such noises in terms of their Lex values. Reference is also made to off-job exposures and how a combination of moderate on- and off-job exposures can lead to a hazardous situation. In between other useful information such as the shout-to-be-heard at arm’s length indicator of dangerous sound and early signs of hearing loss, we view some funny stuff such as a clip on the Hearing Cops with an excellent audio simulation of hearing loss, and a Kelvin Climb ad for Safer Hearing which is a truly funny parody. Throughout the film the director has interspersed old movie clips, some with amusing voice-overs, and others just for the apropos images they portray.

Although the film does not specifically demonstrate how to fit HPDs in the ear, it provides practical information for selection of protectors, such as current hearing levels, noise, need to communicate, other personal protective equipment in use, temperature, climate, physical constraints, and anatomical differences. An interesting analogy is drawn between acoustically sealing an earcanal and sealing a plumbing drain, whereby a small leak can circumvent the effectiveness of the stopper and likewise a small acoustical leak can seriously degrade the performance of the hearing protector. The film concludes with a fun review of the highlights of audiometric testing.

These pros have done their homework, and the promotional materials assure us that “no one’s hearing was damaged in the making of this video, although the director did get a couple of headaches.” The Hearing Video will be a useful and enjoyable addition to your hearing conservation library and training repertoire, whether it’s North or South of the border (the Canadian border that is).

Free previews are available with a credit card guarantee.


E·A·R 82-10/HP Page - 43

Worksafe Australia (612) 565-9555

GPO Box 58

Sydney NSW 2001 AUSTRALIA

Noise Management at Work (14 min., ©1990, Recommended) $45.00 (Australian)

At the onset, U. S. viewers should be cautioned that this film is directed at the Australian market and Australian hearing conservation regulations. Furthermore, the thesis of the producer is that noise should be primarily addressed via engineering controls, with hearing protection viewed as a secondary approach. This is a valid strategy, but one that differs from the U.S./OSHA approach and therefore may contradict what much U. S. industry wishes to say to its workers. This will limit the suitability of the film for general application in U. S. industry.

The film begins with a typical conversation between a man (with hearing loss) and a woman, in a cafeteria. Interspersed segments of noise clearly suggest its effects on communications, and the problems that hearing loss can create. The narrator then speaks of the hearing-loss induced problems of isolation at home and work, and the lost opportunities, perhaps even missing out on job advancement, that can result.

Noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) is demonstrated via filtered and un-filtered music, and we are told that NIHL is permanent, that hearing aids can only partially ameliorate the problem, and that tinnitus may also result. Following a description of how the ear works and how to tell when a noise is potentially damaging (ability to speak at arm's length), the film then turns to its principal topic - methods of reducing noise.

The first method mentioned is HPDs, but the preferred methods are those which are discussed next - equipment maintenance, engineering redesign, source relocation, and the use of barriers and enclosures. Numerous simple examples of success stories are provided. In addition the viewer is reminded to use equipment noise levels as a purchasing criterion.

Altogether, this is an interesting and well-edited film that accurately presents an alternative viewpoint on dealing with noise in the workplace. However, its inappropriateness for the U. S. market and the fact that it must be converted to meet U. S. video standards (i.e., the film as received was not viewable on standard 1/2" U. S. VHS equipment), make it a difficult film to utilize in this country.


Table I - Films Listed Alphabetically by Title

Title Rating Time
(min.)
Copyright Date
Reviewed
Target
Audience
A Brief Colloquy on Acoustic Diffraction Pennsylvania State University - 12 1978 Academic
Blueprints for Safety - Hearing Conservation Comprehensive Loss Mgt CLMI W 13 1994 10/97 Industry
Can You Hear Me? BNA Communications Inc W 16 1979 General
Can’t Hear You Knocking H E A R R 17 1990 5/97 General
Caution - Hearing at Work Industrial Hearing Service Inc W 13 1983 12/85 Industry
Damage Your Hearing & It Won't Come Back Hearing Rehab Foundation R 10 1995 4/97 Grade School
Death Be Not Loud CRM Film W 26 1971 General
The Ears and Hearing Encyclopedia Britannica R 22 1969 General
Hearing Conservation International Film Bureau W 22 1972 General
Hearing Conservation Williams Training Network W 11 1993 3/94 Industry
Hearing Conservation Training Program Interactive Media Comm W 17 1996 10/97 Industry
Hearing Protection Media Resources Inc. W 19 1993 2/94 Industry
Hearing Protection The Safety Center W 9 1990 3/91 Industry
Hearing Protection - It Makes Sense Coastal Video Comm W 21 1995 5/97 Industry
Hearing: The Forgotten Sense International Medifilms W 18 1968 Industry
The Hearing Video WC Board of British Columbia R 17.5 1997 10/97 General
Hear: It Takes Two International Medifilms W 20 1979 Industry
Hearsafe BNA Communications Inc W 19 1995 5/97 Industry
Hear Today Gone Tomorrow Industrial Training Systems W 12 1986 2/94 Industry
Hear Today Hear Tomorrow Canadian Hearing Society R 24 1990 10/92 Child
HIP Talk: Hearing is Priceless House Ear Institute R 34 1992 10/92 Teenagers
How to Use Expandable Foam Earplugs E-A-R/ Hearing Protection Prod R 6 1983 3/86r General
I Am Joe's Ear Pyramid Media W 24 1986 9/87 General
I Love What I Hear! NIDCD W 8 1991 1/94 Grade School
Industrial Noise OHSA Office of Information W 10 1982 Industry
It's Easy to Take Hearing for Granted Canadian Hearing Society W 11 1989 12/93 General
It's Up to You E-A-R/ Hearing Protection Prod. W 12 1976 3/86r Industry
Less Than a Minute E-A-R/ Hearing Protection Prod W 6 1979 4/86r General
Let's Hear It University of Toronto R 28 1980 4/86r General
Listen Up with Norm Crosby E-A-R/ Hearing Protection Prod R 17 1983 General
Listen While You Can International Film Bureau W 21 1972 General
Maxman Defender of Hearing Howard Leight Industries W 7 1998 6/98 General
The National Hearing Quiz E-A-R/ Hearing Protection Prod R 28 1983 General
Noise-Induced Hearing Loss: No 2nd Chance Industrial Training Systems R 17 1992 2/94 Industry
Noise International Film Bureau R 22 1981 General
Noise Management at Work Worksafe Australia R 14 1990 1/92 Industry
Noise Polluting the Environment Encyclopedia Britannica W 16 1971 General
Now Hear This Mine Safety Appliances R 15 1984 6/88 Industry
Otoscopic Inspection/Cerumen Management C&R Productions R 34 1992 12/93 Audiology
People vs Noise Better Hearing Institute W 27 1993 3/94 General
Play it by Ear US Healthworks R 10 1992 10/92 Industry
The Process of Holography Pennsylvania State University - 10 1978 not Academic
Quiet Please University of Hartford W 20 1973 General
Quiet Please III Listen for Sounds of Life Sertoma International R 23 1989 10/90 Grade School
Safety Gear: Hearing Protection AIMS Media W 13 1989 7/89 General
Simple Harmonic Motion Pennsylvania State University R 17 1978 Academic
SOS Dalloz Safety R 12 1980 4/86r General
Sound Field in Rectangular Enclosures Pennsylvania State University W 14 1978 Academic
Sound of Sound E-A-R/ Hearing Protection Prod R 17 1970 8/90r Industry
Sounds Good to Me US Healthworks R 12 1997 10/97 General
Sounds of Combat US Army Environmental Hyg R 8 1989 10/92 Military
Stick It In Your Ear Center for Hearing Sp & Lang R 15 1974 Industry
Take Control: Protecting Yourself University of Michigan W 40 1998 8/98 Industry
Using Hearing Protection ERI R 14 1982 Industry


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