Hearing Protection Fit Testing
All hearing protection devices worn by a user should be well adjusted to ensure efficiency. In other words, no matter the hearing protection device needed, a fit test is equally necessary.
What is fit testing?
Qualitative fit testing:
- Ensures the selected hearing protection device offers adequate protection. The hearing protectors must be efficient according to the other PPE used.
- Verify that the user has the necessary skills to wear, inspect and maintain efficient hearing protection.
Qualitative fit testing:
Determines the qualitative efficiency of the in-ear protectors worn by the user.
To what extent is fit testing necessary?
Are your workers exposed to noise levels
that can pose hearing loss risks?
All elimination measures or risk mitigation measures are insufficient to stop the noise (art. 136 RSST).
When hearing protection is essential, choosing the right protection, and ensuring its proper use, is priority.
When hearing fit testing should be performed?
- In every training on risks related to noise exposure (every two or three years)
- If the model, make, or size of the hearing protection device has been modified
- Before each use
- After morphological changes
- Before or during training
How much time should be allotted to a fit test?
Allow 20 to 30 minutes per person per device according to each type of test.
Where are our fit testing services offered?
FAQ
- RSST Article 5: Operation status of equipment
- LSST Article 51 (9): Give the worker adequate information as to the risks connected with his work and provide him with the appropriate training, assistance or supervision to ensure that he possesses the skill and knowledge required to safely perform the work assigned to him.
- LSST Article 51 (11): provide the worker, free of charge, with all the individual protective means and equipment
- Fit testing protocols are found in the manufacturing guides of the different equipment providers.
- RSST Article 137: the equipment shall be selected, adjusted, used and maintained according to the CSA Z94.2-74 standard (follow the adjustments according to the standard’s updates).
- A hearing loss prevention program shall be developed and implemented in compliance with the CSA Z1007 standard.
Almost all hearing protectors (earplugs), including customized earplugs (molded)
- All earplug protectors (including molded earplugs)
- Earmuff protectors (only with 3M)
Personal items
PPE
Integration of personal protective equipment (PPE) personal characteristicsThe Government of Quebec went ahead with new measures related to noise exposure prevention in the workplace. Find out more right here!
Hearing damage is a well-known consequence of exposure to intense noise. Other physiological and behavioral damages can be caused by excessive noise. What can happen in the long run?
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