Sound localization performance of sample hearing protectors using standardized measurement methods

Sound localization is an important aspect in the performance of many tasks. These tasks frequently require the use of hearing protection to mitigate the potentially adverse effects of noise exposure. ANSI/ASA working group S3/WG94 has described four standard methods for measuring the effect of head-worn devices on sound localization. Data using three different hearing protectors and open ear and using three of the four methods described will be presented. The analysis techniques used for each of the three methods will be described in detail including the removal of front-back reversals and assessment of fine resolution location discrimination. The performance of the three hearing protectors and the open ear condition will be compared and contrasted. Data will be presented on proportion of localization discrimination and front/back reversals using Method 1 as well as localization error performance using Methods 2, and visual target acquisition and response time using Method 3. The performance will also be compared across the three methods. The results show that the measurement methods described are viable for the assessment of the effects of HPDs on performance associated with localization.