1: What is the 3M™ E-A-Rfit™ Validation System?
An objective, quantitative hearing protector fit-test system.
It is technology that takes Hearing Conservation to the next level. Environmental controls, hearing protectors, and on-the-job training are the first steps to protecting your workers against noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL).
2: Fit test your hearing products
The E-A-Rfit system assists in achieving optimal fit through hearing protector selection and employee training. In less than 8 seconds per ear, the system generates a personal attenuation rating (PAR) that indicates a worker's noise reduction levels for a given fitting and hearing protector. Compare ratings across hearing protectors and fittings to determine best fit.
3: Get objective, personalized results
Researchers at E-A-RCal Laboratory developed proprietary algorithms to analyze sound pressure inside ear canals. This in-the-ear testing procedure differs from many other systems on the market by providing quantitative data that does not rely on subject response. Fit, train, and motivate every worker using their Personal Attenuation Rating (PAR).
...all that in 8 seconds!
4: What does the kit include?
E-A-Rfit validation system includes:
- Speaker and Stand
- Dual –Element Microphones
- USB Cable
- Power Cable
- Roll Model
- Trial Quantity of Probed Test Plugs and Software
5: List of compatible 3M™ E-A-R™ Earplugs
- Classic™ Corded/Uncorded
- Classic™ Small
- SuperFit™ 33 and 36
- E-A-Rsoft™ Yellow Neons™/Blasts/Solar (Corded/Uncorded)
- E-A-Rsoft™ FX™ Corded/Uncorded
- UltraFit™ Standard, 14 and 20
- Tracers Standard and 20
- Push-Ins™ and Express™ Corded/Uncorded
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Step 1: Workers self-fit their own plugs
In less than 8 seconds per ear, the system generates a personal attenuation rating (PAR) that indicates a worker's noise reduction levels for a given fitting
Advantage: Reflects an individual's fitting methods and indicates if additional training is necessary.
Step 2: Connect to the Unique dual-element microphone
The microphone measures the noise reduction of each earplug as worn by the worker across the wide range of industrial noise frequencies.
Advantage: Objectively tests 7 frequencies (125 Hz - 8 kHz) in under 8 seconds per ear, so you don't rely on subjective test responses.
Step 3: Run the Test for Personal Attenuation Rating (PAR)
Patented system and proprietary algorithms quickly analyze real-ear data to provide Personal Attenuation Rating (PAR) and fit variability.
Advantage: PARs can assist in determining if the level of hearing protection your workers are getting is appropriate to their work environment.
Documented Results: Easy-to-understand test results are documented for each test subject, both in print and electronic formats, for future reference.
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Look how well the 3M™ E-A-Rfit™ Validation System fits into your hearing conservation program. Integrating hearing protection fit testing into your hearing conservation program benefits everyone from new hires to high-risk workers.
Audit
- Establish baseline values for new workers
- Helps identify workers receiving inadequate protection that leaves them at risk of threshold shifts
- Validate high protection levels required by workers in high noise areas
Fit, Train & Motivate
- Provides tool for training proper insertion techniques and to assess proficiency
- Motivates employees by helping them realize the control they have in protecting their hearing
Assess & Manage
- Improves long term performance of your hearing conservation program
- Indicates employees needing further fit training or alternative hearing protectors
- Input your noise exposure data and the 3M™ E-A-Rfit™ Software can help you identify the most appropriate hearing protector(s) and help minimize over/under protection
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"Good, Better, Best"
A Program Tailored Around Your Workplace's Needs
There are 3 options for incorporating the 3M™ E-A-Rfit™ Validation System into a hearing conservation program, all designed to suit your unique needs. This hearing protector fit testing benefits everyone from new hires to high risk workers.
Option 1: Audit (Good)
This is the base-level application of the E-A-Rfit system, acceptable for wearers exposed to noise levels less than 85dBA.
- Establish baseline values for new workers
- Helps identify workers receiving inadequate protection that leaves them at risk of threshold shifts
- Validate high protection levels required by workers in high noise areas
Option 2: Fit, Train and Motivate (Better)
An enhanced way to optimize the system, with repeat measurements and more regular checks.
- Provides tool for training proper insertion techniques and to assess proficiency
- Motivates employees by helping them realize the control they have in protecting their hearing
Option 3: Assess & Manage Usage (Best)
For optimum precision in predicting employee protection and enhancing individual use and performance.
- Improves long term performance of your hearing conservation program
- Indicates employees needing further fit training or alternative hearing protectors
- Input your noise exposure data and the 3M™ E-A-Rfit™ Software can help you identify the most appropriate hearing protector(s) and help minimize over/under protection
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Installation Guides
Installation guide (Full) (PDF, 1.75MB)
Installation guide (Upgrade) (PDF, 1.23MB)
Software Download
Note: Click on the Full Installation link if you are a new user or you are running 3M™ E-A-Rfit™ Software version 3 or earlier. Click on the Upgrade Installation link if you are running version 4 or later.
Software full installation (exe, 300 MB)
Software upgrade installation (exe, 22.9 MB)
In order to use the 3M™ E-A-Rfit™ Validation System to measure hearing protector attenuation, you will need to:
- Purchase a 3M™ E-A-Rfit™ Kit model 393-1000 from your 3M distributor. This kit includes the hardware and accessories you need to get started along with a sample of probed test earplugs. Once you begin using the system, you will need to purchase additional probed test earplugs for use during testing.
- Download the current version of the 3M™ E-A-Rfit™ Software and the installation guide using the links on this page.
- Contact 3M to obtain a Technician Code and password. Click here to create an e-mail request. Type "technician code request" in the subject field then fill in the form making sure to enter the serial number of your 3M™ E-A-Rfit™ Loudspeaker in the "Serial Number" field. You should receive a response in 24 hours.
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