An in-ear local communication device may help overcome problems with hearing and being heard while wearing PPE, say Canadian researchers.

A proof-of-concept study with 12 surgical registrars found using the earpieces was linked to improved intelligibility.

The researchers simulated a surgical environment with suction machines and warming blankets, while the participants trialled the earpieces with N95 respirators, chunkier half-face elastomeric respirators and face-covering powered air purifying respirator (PAPR) devices. 

The listeners and talkers were positioned 1m apart on either side of the surgical table.