Understanding Personal Attenuation Rating (PAR) and Hearing Conservation

Protecting workers from noise exposure is a critical component of workplace safety. Prolonged exposure to high noise levels can lead to permanent hearing loss and other health complications. That’s where Personal Attenuation Rating (PAR) and effective Hearing Conservation Programs come into play. Understanding how PAR works and why hearing conservation matters can help businesses protect their employees and maintain compliance with occupational safety standards.

What is Personal Attenuation Rating (PAR)?

The Personal Attenuation Rating (PAR) measures the actual noise reduction provided by hearing protection devices (HPDs) for an individual worker. Unlike the Noise Reduction Rating (NRR), which estimates the maximum potential noise reduction under ideal conditions, PAR reflects real-world protection levels based on proper fit and individual use.

How PAR is Measured:

AFit Testing – PAR is determined through a fit test, where the worker wears the hearing protection device, and a test measures how much noise is being blocked.

Individualized Results – Since ear canal shapes vary among individuals, PAR provides a more accurate measurement of how well the device protects each worker.

Objective Measurement – Fit-testing methods like the Real-Ear Attenuation at Threshold (REAT) and Microphone in Real Ear (MIRE) provide objective data to determine the PAR.

In the E•A•R fit testing process, the PAR’s uncertainty-error bar that is shown on the Testing/Attenuation Measurements/Fitting Profile screen (Figure 2), represents the measurement uncertainty based only on the variability previously measured with subjects in our laboratory; no fitting or spectrum uncertainty are.

Testing, Attenuation Measurement screen

Included in this value. However, for the PAR value on the Results/Fitting Profile screen all three uncertainties are included: measurement, fit, and spectral.

Results, Fitting Profile screen

Why PAR Matters in Hearing Conservation

Hearing loss caused by occupational noise exposure is permanent but preventable. A hearing conservation program that incorporates PAR ensures that workers are getting the right level of protection for their specific needs.

Components of an Effective Hearing Conservation Program

1. Noise Monitoring and Assessment

Regular noise level assessments identify areas where workers are exposed to hazardous noise levels (≥85 dB over an 8-hour shift). This helps determine where hearing protection is required.

2. Hearing Protection Devices (HPDs)

Providing workers with properly fitted hearing protection devices, such as earplugs or earmuffs, is essential. Using PAR ensures that the devices are effective for each individual worker.

3. Employee Training and Education

Workers should receive training on:

• The dangers of noise exposure.
• How to correctly use and maintain hearing protection.
• How to interpret PAR results and adjust protection accordingly.

4. Annual Audiometric Testing

Regular hearing tests help monitor changes in a worker’s hearing and evaluate the effectiveness of the hearing conservation program. If a decline in hearing is detected, corrective actions can be taken.

5. Program Evaluation and Improvement

Continuous assessment of the hearing conservation program, including reviewing PAR data and employee feedback, helps improve protection and adjust strategies as needed.

Benefits of PAR in Hearing Conservation

✅ Ensures hearing protection devices are properly fitted and effective.
✅ Helps employers comply with OSHA standards for occupational noise exposure.
✅ Reduces the risk of permanent hearing loss and related health issues.
✅ Improves worker comfort and compliance with hearing protection requirements.
✅ Identifies gaps in protection and allows for targeted improvements.

Conclusion

Incorporating Personal Attenuation Rating (PAR) into a hearing conservation program enhances worker protection by providing individualized data on hearing protection effectiveness. A well-designed hearing conservation program not only protects employees from noise-induced hearing loss but also improves overall workplace safety and compliance.

For more information on hearing conservation programs and fit testing, contact us today!