What will the program achieve?
Research Goal 2.2 - Develop hearing protection laboratory and fit-testing methods

The HLR program has contracted with the University of Cincinnati to develop a multi-station fit-testing system that will integrate audiometry and fit-testing into a single testing system built from commercially available signal generation hardware. Once completed, HPDFit will be installed for field testing in mobile testing units such as the HLR Program’s mobile audiometric research facility operated out of PRL and in fixed testing facilities such as those found in industry and the military. The HLR program tested the doseBusters USA Exposure Smart Protector (ESP) integrated dosimeter and hearing protection system and reported doses measured in the occluded position less than 85 dB(A) indicated adequate hearing protection.[46] The ESP represents a novel use of existing technology to monitor the fit of an HPD through continuous sampling of the noise exposure based upon how the protector is worn.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Use of hearing protection devices may be monitored either with a fit-testing system or with a recording microphone positioned under the hearing protector.