Why Fit Testing Should Be Part of Every OSHA Hearing Conservation Program

Most employers think they’re covered when it comes to hearing conservation. They follow OSHA’s standard (29 CFR 1910.95), provide hearing protection, run annual audiograms, and monitor noise levels. But one simple addition can take your program from compliant to cutting-edge: hearing protection fit testing.

What Is Fit Testing—And Why Isn’t It Required?

Fit testing is the process of measuring how well an individual’s earplugs actually reduce noise exposure. It results in a Personal Attenuation Rating (PAR) that reflects real-world performance—something a standard Noise Reduction Rating (NRR) on a box can’t tell you.

Right now, OSHA doesn’t require fit testing. But safety leaders are adopting it anyway because:

• Most workers don’t get the protection the label claims.
• Improper fit leads to preventable, permanent hearing loss.
• Fit testing provides measurable data for better decision-making.
• It supports safety culture and engagement at the individual level.

Soundtrace Makes Fit Testing Effortless

At Soundtrace, we believe fit testing should be simple, fast, and built into the daily workflow—not a separate process requiring extra time and equipment. That’s why our digital hearing conservation solution includes an integrated fit testing module that:

✅ Uses the same equipment and process as our audiogram testing
✅ Allows employees to insert their earplugs immediately after their hearing test
✅ Runs a few quick frequencies to calculate an individual PAR
✅ Instantly determines if the worker is wearing them correctly—or needs to reinsert and try again

There’s no guesswork. No separate appointment. No added complexity.

Example: What a Fit Test Looks Like

After completing their hearing test, one worker moves straight into the fit check using the Soundtrace system. They insert their foam earplugs and follow the on-screen steps. In just a few minutes, their results are ready:

The system shows a Personal Attenuation Rating (PAR) of 20 dB in both ears—meaning the earplugs are blocking out a safe amount of noise based on how they were worn. It also shows the worker is getting 71% of the expected protection, which is a solid result.

Most importantly, their adjusted noise exposure is calculated at 67 dBA, well below OSHA’s 85 dBA limit.

The software gives a clear PASS, confirming the worker is properly protected before heading back to the floor.

Why It Matters: Real Data, Real Protection

Fit testing isn’t just about compliance—it’s about confidence. When employees see their own results, they understand the importance of proper use. And when safety managers track PAR data over time, they can spot trends, optimize training, and reduce risk—before hearing damage occurs.

Plus, it all stays within the Soundtrace platform, making documentation and reporting effortless.

Go Beyond the Standard

Fit testing may not be required (yet), but it’s quickly becoming the new best practice. With Soundtrace, you don’t need extra time, tools, or training to make it happen. Just one seamless workflow that protects workers, empowers safety teams, and builds a stronger hearing conservation program.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is fit testing required by OSHA?

No. OSHA’s current Hearing Conservation Standard (29 CFR 1910.95) does not require fit testing of hearing protection devices. However, employers are required to ensure that hearing protection is effective—which is where fit testing can help validate proper use.

What is a Personal Attenuation Rating (PAR)?

A PAR is a personalized measurement of how much sound is actually reduced by a hearing protection device when worn by a specific person. It’s the real-world result of a fit test and often differs significantly from the labeled NRR (Noise Reduction Rating).

How does Soundtrace perform fit testing?

Soundtrace includes a built-in fit testing module as part of its digital hearing conservation solution. After completing an audiogram, workers insert their earplugs, run a quick test using the same equipment, and the software automatically calculates their PAR. It immediately confirms whether the fit is effective or needs adjustment.

Why is fit testing important if I already provide earplugs?

Because fit is everything. Even high-quality earplugs provide little protection if they’re not inserted correctly. Fit testing verifies that each worker is actually getting the protection they need—not just what’s printed on the box.

What’s the difference between NRR and PAR?

• NRR (Noise Reduction Rating) is a lab-tested number provided by the manufacturer.
• PAR (Personal Attenuation Rating) is an individualized measurement based on how the worker wears the earplugs in real life. PAR is always more accurate for real-world protection.

How long does a Soundtrace fit test take?

Just a couple of minutes. Since the process uses the same setup as the audiogram, there's no extra equipment or downtime. Workers can complete both the hearing test and the fit test in a single sitting.

Can fit testing be used for training?

Absolutely. Fit testing is a powerful training moment—it helps employees understand proper insertion techniques and connects them directly to their own protection. Many employers see improved compliance and awareness after introducing fit testing.

Does Soundtrace store and track fit testing results?

Yes. Fit testing results, including PAR values, are securely stored within the Soundtrace platform. Safety teams can access historical data, track improvement, and even flag trends over time.