(Caffarella, 1994; Merriam, 1993). Further research is
needed to maximize the effects of individually tailored
interventions in this setting.
Based on previous research results and anecdotal information,
it is difficult to change worker behavior in regard
to use of personal protective equipment. The annual training
provided by the plant had not resulted in constant use
of HPDs. Although statistically significant, the increase
seen in this study was small progress toward achieving
total use of HPDs. However, the fact that a 30-minute
intervention delivered 6 to 18 months prior had an effect
on this difficult-to-influence behavior is significant.
The number of workers exposed to noise, the importance
of preserving hearing ability, and the impact of hearing
loss on personal and work lives justifies the effort to
develop useful interventions. To provide the best protection
for workers, it is essential that the most effective
interventions be used to promote use of HPDs to protect
hearing.