Whats the best way to lower db's - is it simply by putting in as much packing in there as possible or is there some art to getting the amount right?

Any particular materials better than others?

I did a quick visual check and my packing looked as good as when it tested at 97db but had crept up to 101db last time I had it measured.

any tips? Thanks!

Don't forget that it depends on the area where it was tested. How much ambient noise was there etc...

Easier way is to buy a pair of earplugs.

brands said mine was 100ish but 120db on the coughs 'n' splutters....

er... so that's 100 right? and I can get my green sticker???

No don't pack it in or you loose the sound absorbtion of the material. If you used glass matting round the perforated tube (some stainless wire wool first helps to keep it in) from Merlin for example then I would wrap enough to make it a snug fit but still able to slide it back in the can.

thanks for the advice - Im booking brands again soon and am a bit concerned about how close I am to their limit

cheers,
Dan