HPE testing
March 1st 2011 Diversified technology company 3M
is promoting a new system which is
claimed to provide a completely
objective test of the 'at-ear'
protection being offered by hearing
protection equipment (HPE).
Compatible with a variety of 3M
HPE products, the 3M EARfit
Validation System generates, in eight
seconds, a personal attenuation rating
(PAR) which indicates a worker's
noise reduction level for that given
HPE item. This verifies that the
required legal level of protection is
being offered and gives an indication
of whether products are correctly
fitted so further training can be
provided if necessary.
The system's dual-element
microphone measures across seven
frequencies (125Hz - 8KHz),
providing a completely objective
reading, so there is no need to rely
on subjective test responses from
individual workers.
The company says the system will
be of particular value to
organisations seeking to implement a
hearing conservation programme,
with the flexibility to establish
baseline values for new workers;
identify workers who may be
receiving inadequate protection; and
validate protection levels received by
workers in high noise areas. More articles from 3M UK Plc: | 
