D6: Hearing Protector Fit-Testing in the Department of Defense

Kansas City Convention Center 

Room: 3501 H 

CM Credit Hours: 1 

Hearing protector fit-testing (HPFT) provides an opportunity for the Department of Defense (DOD) to improve its hearing conservation program (HCP). Service members and noise-exposed civilians are at significant risk for noise-induced hearing loss. HPFT ensures individuals are trained to correctly insert hearing protectors so they have effective protection. The ability to hear and communicate is vital to mission accomplishment. When auditory function is impaired, critical safety and performance is degraded. A DOD policy change requires the incorporation of HPFT into its HCPs. A HPFT task force (TF) will expedite the adoption of this requirement. The TF will ensure a consistent program with respect to equipment, training, public health studies, and recordkeeping. This presentation will address: a) HPFT basics, including measurement techniques, selecting target attenuation, and b) describe how HPFT can assist with education and training of noise-exposed workers. Additionally, this session will feature DOD successes, challenges, and best practices associated with large-scale HPFT program implementation within the DOD.

Upon completion, the participant will be able to:

• Describe the methods used to perform hearing protector fit-testing.
• Define Personal Attenuation Rating (PAR).
• Explain how HPR fit-testing can augment hearing health education and training.
• Recognize the challenges with hearing protector fit-testing implementation. 

Introductory

Demo

Q&A

Government/Military

Construction

Manufacturing

Mining

Available as part of AIHA Connect OnDemand

Noise/Hearing Loss Prevention

Protective Clothing and Equipment

Safety