uvex xact-fit test

Hearing protection fit-testing system

Ensure compliance and protect your workforce with accurate hearing protection fit testing

When it comes to providing personal protective equipment (PPE), ensuring the correct size and fit isn’t just best practice - it’s a legal requirement under HSE Regulations. For hearing protection, this means knowing the actual level of noise attenuation your workers receive when wearing earplugs.

Without a fit-testing system, this remains a guessing game, putting employees at risk of both over-exposure and under-protection, and leaving employers vulnerable to non-compliance.

Introducing the uvex xact-fit test system

The uvex xact-fit test is a fast, reliable, and user-friendly solution for hearing protection fit testing. Designed to deliver accurate, real-world attenuation results, it helps ensure that each worker receives the protection they need.

Open system compatibility – Test virtually any earplug on the market.
Cloud-based software – Access results anytime, anywhere.
Wireless headset – Portable and convenient for on-site testing.

With uvex xact-fit, you can confidently meet regulatory requirements while safeguarding your team’s hearing health.

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What is hearing protection fit testing?

Hearing protection fit testing is a process used to evaluate the effectiveness of earplugs or earmuffs in providing an individual with adequate protection against harmful noise levels. This testing ensures that the selected hearing protection fits the user properly and delivers the expected level of noise reduction, ensuring a safer working environment and compliance with legal and regulatory requirements.

The fit test is performed using specialised equipment, like the uvex xact-fit test system, that measures the actual noise reduction for the wearer in a controlled environment. For more information contact our support team.

Why is hearing protection fit testing necessary?

Just as every individual’s ear canal is unique, so too is the level of protection they receive from hearing protection devices (HPDs). Even when using the same product, the actual noise attenuation can vary significantly depending on how well the device fits the wearer.

In the UK, hearing protection products are often rated using the Single Number Rating (SNR). However, this rating does not guarantee effective protection in real-world settings. The SNR is a single, average value derived from laboratory testing that indicates the noise reduction a product can theoretically achieve. Several factors can reduce this stated protection level in practice. Incorrect insertion, poor fit, and lack of user training can result in wearers receiving little to no protection, even when using certified earplugs or earmuffs.

Hearing protection fit testing is the only reliable method to accurately and consistently measure the actual attenuation a worker receives. It plays a vital role in ensuring compliance with UK regulations and safeguarding employee health. Here’s how fit testing supports your hearing conservation programme:

Verifying Proper Fit
Fit testing confirms whether the hearing protection device is correctly fitted to the individual, ensuring it provides the intended level of protection.
Educating Users
Workers are trained on how to properly insert and wear their hearing protection, reducing the risk of misuse and improving overall effectiveness.
Documenting Compliance
Fit testing provides clear evidence that employees are receiving adequate protection, helping employers meet their legal obligations under the Control of Noise at Work Regulations 2005.
Personalising Protection
Since ear canal shapes and sizes vary, fit testing helps identify the most suitable type and size of hearing protection for each worker, improving comfort and wearability.

Why uvex xact-fit test?

Open system

Can test most earplugs on the market
No modifications to the earplugs necessary
Uses Real Ear Attenuation at Threshold (REAT) method

Portable and wireless

Bluetooth connectivity allows a test to be set up anywhere an internet connection is available
Provides ability to carry out on-the-spot fit-tests on workers

Quick test results

Simple to operate
Tests both ear at the same time without compromising on accuracy
Total test time of 2 to 5 minutes per person

Cloud-based software

Receive regular software updates quickly and easily
Automatic upload of information and results

Hardware inclusions

The hardware kit comes with a tablet, headphones, spare batteries, spare hygiene kit, protective case, and a compact travel case.

Software and services

The test is performed using a cloud-based software which comes pre-installed on the tablet. uvex will provide onboarding training to users so they are able to confidently use the system and its features. The PC manager tool is installed on the user’s PC and provides functionality to set up and manage tests and results.