Hearing protector fit testing (HPFT) is a critical advancement in workplace hearing conservation and is recognized as a best practice (OSHA et al., 2008; OSHA, 2017). HPFT is not required under OSHA’s Occupational Noise Exposure standards (29 CFR 1910.95; 29 CFR 1926.52), but can be a valuable training tool for workers. HPFT measures the amount of noise reduction (attenuation) a hearing protection device (HPD) provides and can help train workers on what a properly inserted earplug “feels like” in the ear. This tool allows workers to select the most effective HPDs that are comfortable, can be inserted correctly, and provide adequate noise reduction while allowing them to hear important communication and warning signals necessary for safety in the workplace. Since OSHA noise standards were enacted, several HPFT systems have become readily available to employers and can be a valuable part of an effective hearing conservation program (HCP).
There are two (2) types of HPFT systems:
- Subjective HPFT devices require workers to respond to sounds played through headphones. The worker is usually tested without hearing protectors first to establish a baseline, then inserts HPDs and is tested again to establish a PAR. These systems offer more flexibility because they allow for testing a variety of HPDs but are also more time-consuming.
- Objective HPFT devices use a dual-microphone to measure a test sound inside and outside an inserted earplug that has been modified with a microphone. Workers do not need to respond to sound stimuli, therefore testing time is typically faster than subjective devices. However, objective HPFT devices may only test a specific brand or brands of earplugs instead of the selection of HPDs available for use by workers in the workplace
While HPFT is not required in the OSHA Noise Exposure Standards (29 CFR 1910.95; 29 CFR 1926.52), OSHA acknowledges the value of HPFT in the OSHA Technical Manual and has implemented HPFT for its own workers enrolled in a HCP. Records generated by HPFT also help employers document their efforts to comply with requirements in the OSHA noise standards (29 CFR 1910.95; 29 CFR 1926.52; 29 CFR 1926.101). Employers covered under OSHA-approved State Plans should comply with applicable State requirements for occupational noise exposure, which may vary from Federal OSHA standards.
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