This process generates an individual PAR rating and ensures your worker's hearing protection is properly fitted and actually works when needed. Ear fit testing is a requirement of entry to many mine sites and is recommended prior to using earplugs or earmuffs for the first time. Testing should also be completed whenever there is a change of ear plug type, or any condition that may affect the proper fit.
For ear fit testing we utilise the 3M E-A-Rfit to deliver real-time, quantitative measurement of a worker’s hearing protection effectiveness. A Personal Attenuation Rating (PAR) is generated, which reflects the level of noise reduction achieved based on how the hearing protection is fitted.
Important things to note before booking your HPD fit test:
We use 3M supplied earplugs and earmuffs for our HPD testing
Please advise us of the mine site/worksite you are having the test for
Please provide us with your Company’s Noise Exposure Limit if known
Please provide the Employee Noise Exposure level of job role/site. If unknown, we can still perform the test and provide each worker with an individual PAR, but you will not know if the result is a pass or a failure. This will be noted on your fit test report. For accurate pass/fail reporting please obtain an Occupational Noise Assessment specific to the job role/site
Fit Testing is completed at 5/37 Steel Loop, Wedgefield.
Fit Testing takes between 15-30 minutes.
Generally none. These courses are open to all, with no formal educational prerequisites.
While not always mandatory, these are designed for individuals already working in the sector, such as health and safety officers, occupational health staff, or technicians.
A basic understanding of English, numeracy, and IT skills is usually required to complete online assessments.
Usually, participants must be at least 16 years old.N/A
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Under Work Health and Safety (WHS) regulations, employers must provide audiometric testing to workers who frequently use personal hearing protectors within 3 months of starting work, and at least every 2 years thereafter.
