The new ANSI/ASA S12.71-2018 standard for hearing protection fit test systems is here and the 3M™ E-A-Rfit™ Dual-Ear Validation Fit-Test System is now compliant!
OSHA has recommended fit testing as a best practice in hearing conservation since 2008. ANSI/ASA recently published the first standard setting the criteria that fit-test systems should meet to help ensure accurate measurements and transparent reporting of fit-test results. This new standard is titled ANSI/ASA S12.71-2018, American National Standard Performance Criteria for Systems that Estimate the Attenuation of Passive Hearing Protectors for Individual Users.
Hearing protector fit testing is a way to measure the amount of noise reduction, or attenuation, a hearing protector provides while it is being worn by a specific individual. This real-world measurement is referred to as a “Personal Attenuation Rating” or PAR.
3M recommends workers fit test their hearing protectors.So, like respirators, the worker can better understand the level of protection they can achieve with a properly fitted hearing protection.
Download the technical bulletin to learn more about fit testing, and see some benefits other companies have realised.
Hearing Protection Fit Testing: What, Why and How | Technical Bulletin (PDF, 591 KB)
The Safe Work Australia model Code of Practice "Managing noise and preventing hearing loss at work", July 2020, Section 5.3, states that "Individual fit of personal hearing protectors is critical for optimum protection". "The fit of hearing protectors should be checked while the user is wearing regular work equipment." Several devices assist with fit testing Hearing Protection, such as EARFit.
This information indicates the importance of individual testing for effective fit. Although hearing protector fit may vary from day to day, fit testing helps to verify that each worker can fit his/her hearing protectors correctly and obtain adequate attenuation and that the hearing protector is appropriate for the size and shape of the ear canal or head.
The 3M™ E-A-Rfit™ Dual-Ear Validation System makes it easy to measure every employee's unique level of attenuation through hearing protection fit testing and helps take the guesswork out of managing compliance in your hearing conservation program.
Personal Safety Division
94 Apollo Drive,
Rosedale Auckland 0632
TechAssist Helpline 0800 364 357
Customer Service 0800 252 627
Email: techassist@mmm.com
Personal Safety Division
94 Apollo Drive,
Rosedale Auckland 0632
TechAssist Helpline 0800 364 357
Customer Service 0800 252 627
Email: techassist@mmm.com
Monday - Friday 9am to 5pm NZST
We will respond to your email request in 24-48 hours. Most messages are answered within two business days or less; however, some replies require further investigation or clarification.
For 3M™ E-A-Rfit™ Equipment calibration, please contact the TechAssist Helpline: 800-364-357
For 3M™ E-A-Rfit™ Equipment calibration, please contact the TechAssist Helpline: 800-364-357