Operational challenges associated with the use of fit test systems in the U.S. Air Force

Abstract

Hearing protection fit test systems provide immediate and direct feedback on the goodness-of-fit for a specific individual based on the personal attenuation rating (PAR) obtained from the measurement. Fit test systems may provide improved retention of hearing protection training, particularly when used in combination with face-to-face training. One challenge for the U.S. Air Force is determining when face-to-face training should occur, and how detailed this training should be to maximize the benefits for end users. A second challenge is determining if various hearing loss patterns render PAR data inaccurate, because many Air Force personnel have hearing loss. The ability of individuals with hearing loss to achieve a desired PAR for a workplace may be influenced by the dynamic range of the system, particularly when measuring the protected condition. This presentation will discuss how the two challenges mentioned above must be investigated before implementing fit test systems as a hearing preservation tool for U.S. Air Force personnel, and discuss some preliminary data obtained in these areas.