Do You Know The Benefits of Ear Fit Testing?
Hearing fit testing - or ear fit testing - is a method used to assess how well earplugs or earmuffs protect an individual from harmful noise levels. This testing guarantees that the chosen hearing protection fits the user correctly and provides the anticipated level of noise reduction, contributing to a safer work environment and meeting legal and regulatory standards. The fit test is conducted using specialised equipment that measures the actual noise reduction experienced by the wearer in a controlled setting.
Implications of Hearing Loss in the Workplace
The onset of hearing loss can introduce additional safety challenges in the workplace, manifesting as a decline in awareness and concentration and resulting in approximately 3400 successful workers' compensation claims annually.
However, there's optimistic news – hearing damage is entirely avoidable with the adoption of suitable Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). Ear protection, when correctly designed and fitted, proves highly effective in mitigating industrial noise to safe levels. The pivotal factor, nonetheless, lies in the judicious selection of the right hearing protection, whether it be ear muffs or ear plugs, disposable or reusable, and hearing fit testing ensures this selection is the correct one for the individual user. Making informed choices in this regard is crucial for preserving auditory health and overall workplace safety.
You can read more about occupation noise here.
Why Ear Fit Testing is Important:
The size and shape of ear canals can differ significantly among individuals, just like other anatomical features. Consequently, the level of noise attenuation experienced by users of the same product will vary based on how well it fits. The safety rating of a product is determined from tests conducted on inexperienced subjects in a controlled environment, so it does not ensure a proper fit. These factors, along with a lack of knowledge about how to correctly insert earplugs, often lead to many users receiving little to no protection from noise, even while using earplugs.
Benefits of Hearing Fit Testing:
Hearing protection fit testing is the only reliable way to accurately and consistently measure the actual noise attenuation experienced by a wearer. A thorough fit test will assist you in:
Personalised Protection: Recognising each person's ear canal shape and size vary, fit testing assists in choosing the most effective type and size of hearing protection for each worker.
Verifying the Proper Fit: Ensuring that the hearing protection device fits the user correctly to provide maximum protection.
Educating Users: Instructing workers on the correct use and wearing of hearing protection devices, and answering any questions to empower them to make safe choices.
Documenting Protection Levels: Supplying records or proof that employees are adequately protected by their hearing protection devices, thus demonstrating compliance with WHS regulations
Optimal Performance: Properly fitted hearing protection maximises its effectiveness in reducing noise exposure and Noise Induced Hearing Loss (NIHD).
Noise Induced Hearing Loss (NIHL) is a condition that results from prolonged exposure to loud noises. It occurs when the delicate structures of the inner ear, responsible for hearing, are damaged due to the impact of excessive noise. This type of hearing loss is gradual and often irreversible.
In the absence of a hearing protection fit-testing system, the true level of noise attenuation provided by earplugs is unclear. This uncertainty exposes workers to the risk of both over-exposure and under-exposure to noise, while also placing employers at risk of not providing sufficient hearing protection. We recommend hearing fit testing once a year to ensure that your systems continue to work properly for you.
Hearing Protection Standards and Regulations in Australia:
a. Safe Work Australia:
Safe Work Australia emphasises the importance of hearing protection programs, including fit testing, under the Work Health and Safety (WHS) Act and Regulations.
b. AS/NZS 1270:2002 (Australian/New Zealand Standard):
This standard provides guidelines for the selection, use, and maintenance of hearing protection devices, including ear fit testing procedures,
c. ISO 4869-7:2017 (International Organisation for Standardisation):
Complementing local standards, ISO 4869-7 outlines methods for the measurement of hearing protection device performance, including fit testing procedures.
Safe Work Australia underscores the significance of hearing protection programs, incorporating fit testing, as outlined in the Work Health and Safety (WHS) Act and Regulations. This regulatory framework emphasises the imperative to implement comprehensive measures for safeguarding auditory health within workplaces.
Ear Fit Testing Methods:
a. Real-Ear Attenuation at Threshold (REAT):
Measures the actual noise reduction achieved by an individual wearing hearing protection.
b. Quantitative Field Microphone-in-Real-Ear (MIRE):
Quantitative fit testing utilizes a small microphone in the ear canal to measure the noise levels inside and outside the ear, determining the protection provided.
c. Qualitative Fit Testing
Qualitative fit testing has the subject first listen to sounds, then apply their hearing protection device and repeat the recognition of the same sounds to gauge how effective the hearing protection is.
Implementing Ear Fit Testing in Australia:
a. Hearing Protection Program:
Integrate ear fit testing into a comprehensive hearing protection program compliant with AS/NZS 1270:2002. This could also be found in the Occupational Health and Safety Management System (OHSMS) and AS/NZS 4801 programs.
b. Hearing Protection Training:
Provide training on how to correctly insert earplugs, the correct use and maintenance of hearing protection devices in line with Australian standards.
Fit Test Australia differs from other hearing fit testing centres in that we prioritise training and education.
During our ear fit testing, we offer the following training:
An overview of basic hearing protection.
Instructions on how to properly insert earplugs or wear hearing protection.
Guidance on how and when to remove earplugs.
We understand that everyone’s personal circumstances are different, and tailor the training to each individual and offer assistance as needed.
c. Regular Monitoring:
Periodically re-evaluate and retest to ensure continued effectiveness and compliance with local legislation. This can be paired with Audiometry testing which is required upon entry of starting an occupation where hearing protection will be utilised to establish baseline hearing and every 2 years thereafter or more often if the workplace noise exposure equals or exceeds 100 dB.
Hearing protection is categorised into five classes, ranging from Class 1, offering the least protection, to Class 5, providing the highest level of protection.
Overview:
Adhering to Australian standards and legislative requirements, such as those outlined by Safe Work Australia and AS/NZS 1270:2019, is crucial when considering and implementing ear fit testing. This ensures that the testing methods are standardized, reliable, and in compliance with occupational health and safety laws specific to Australia. Ultimately, ear fit testing contributes to a safer work environment by enhancing the reliability of hearing protection measures for Australian workers.
Ear fit testing across NSW and Victoria. Pair your mask fit test with an ear fit test in Sydney and Melbourne.
Your health and safety is our priority
Call: 0403 064 064
Email: info@fta.net.au
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