Quantitative Hearing Fit Testing Service Now Offered

Construction Working wearing protective equipment - audiometric testing

Quantitative Hearing Fit Testing Now Being Offered

Commodore Solutions will now be offering quantitative hearing fit testing for the 2025 season. Fit testing was introduced in the Alberta OHS guidelines in 2023 to coincide with audiometric testing as part of hearing loss prevention planning. The fit test will ensure the ear plug being utilized is fitting the employee properly and is reducing the noise exposure to the degree that is needed.

To ensure that employees are well informed regarding the fit and function of their ear plugs, there is an educational component that goes along with the fit test and each employee tested will receive this training. The training focuses on proper plug choice, proper placing of the plug and a reminder that the protection only works if the plug is worn at all times when the worker is in noise exposed areas. Below is a sample report that is generated for each test.

Helping You Select the Right Hearing Protection

As part of our service we’ll be reviewing the following to help you select the right hearing protection:

  • find out what level of protection you need;
  • make sure the protection is right for the application; and
  • ensure proper fit.

The steps to book such testing with Commodore Solutions are as follows:

  • Text or call Commodore Solutions at 587-832-4441 or submit a request for appointment.
Book Appointment

Resources:  NIOSH Science Policy Update – Individual Fit Testing Recommendation for Hearing Protection Devices

Changes to Noise Exposure

hearing exposure limits

Part 16 of the Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) Code

According to the OHS code, “excess noise” was previously defined as “noise that exceeds 85 dBA Lex and the exposure limits listed in Schedule 3, Table 1”; as of Dec 2022, that number has been lowered to 82 dBA Lex. (dBA Lex is the averaged level of total exposure to noise in dBA adjusted to an equivalent 8 hour exposure.)

Baseline audio testing is conducted to provide a reference point for future audiometric testing. Baseline testing is conducted ideally at the beginning of employment, but no later than 6 months after the start of employment. Frequency of testing after the baseline must be 12 months after the baseline test and then every two years thereafter.  Effective March 31, 2023.  

Book audiometric testing

Plan or modify your audiometric testing schedule

Excerpt of Changes

Commodore Solutions can provide onsite and clinical audiometric testing that meets and exceeds industry requirements.

We can help you develop an audiometric testing program based on your individual business requirements.

Book Appointment