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 UK PPE regulations. For hearing protection, achieving a proper fit is essential, as the protection an individual receives can differ significantly from the attenuation stated on the packaging. Hearing protection fit testing helps organisations verify the level of protection each worker actually achieves.

Without fit testing, hearing protection selection can become a guessing game. Workers may be left either under-protected from harmful noise or over-protected to the point that communication and situational awareness are affected. Fit testing provides the evidence needed to confirm that hearing protection is delivering the intended level of protection for each individual wearer.

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 most reliable way to measure the actual attenuation an individual worker receives from their hearing protection. The test provides a Personal Attenuation Rating (PAR), a worker-specific result that shows the level of protection achieved based on how their earplug fits and is worn. This plays a vital role in helping organisations verify that hearing protection is providing the intended level of protection, support compliance with UK regulations, and safeguard 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 provides a PAR and the most suitable type and size of hearing protection for each worker improving protection, comfort and wearability.

Estimated number of workers with work-related hearing problems, 2022/23 to 2024/25^*

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.