Are your earplugs (or earmuffs) actually protecting YOU: or just “checking the box?”
NIOSH now recommends individual hearing protection fit-testing to measure the real-world protection each worker gets (often reported as a Personal Attenuation Rating/PAR). Why it matters: the labeled NRR can overestimate protection if the fit isn’t right.
What employers should know:
• Fit-testing helps confirm each person is getting enough attenuation for their job’s noise level
• It pinpoints who needs a different size/style or quick re-training
• It supports stronger hearing conservation decisions (and can reduce avoidable threshold shifts)
What workers should know:
• A “good fit” should feel comfortable and consistent every time
• If your plugs work loose, hurt, or you still struggle to hear safely: speak up
Northeast Occupational Audiology Associates can help with hearing conservation retests, workplace determinations, and mobile on-site support.
Call 201-645-5440 or reach out online at www.neocaudio.com.
