Product Overview
The 3M E-A-Rfit Dual-Ear Validation System is designed to quantitatively measure the effectiveness of hearing protection devices for individual workers. This system helps determine whether workers are receiving adequate protection from their hearing protector by measuring across 7 standard frequencies in under five seconds, providing a detailed report on the noise attenuation performance of earplugs or earmuffs and a pass or fail rating for each individual person based on their personal attenuation rating.
Figure 1: The 3M E-A-Rfit Dual-Ear Validation System, showing the laptop interface and the dual-microphone assembly.
Key Features:
- Dual-Element, Dual-Microphone Assembly: Measures sound levels both inside and outside the hearing protector simultaneously.
- Science-Based, Quantitative Testing: Provides accurate reports of hearing protection effectiveness.
- Fast and Accurate Results: Obtain clear results in seconds, which can be printed or saved electronically.
- Personal Attenuation Rating (PAR): Determines the individual worker's PAR, reducing measurement and fitting uncertainties.
- Dual-Ear Design: Measures both ears concurrently, saving time.
- Frequency Range: Tests across 7 standard frequencies (125, 250, 500, 1000, 2000, 4000, 8000 Hz).
What's in the Box
The 3M E-A-Rfit Dual-Ear Validation System typically includes the core validation system components necessary for operation. Please refer to your specific product packaging for a complete list of contents.
- 3M E-A-Rfit Dual-Ear Validation System hardware
- Required cables and accessories
- Software installation media or download instructions
Setup Instructions
- Unpack Components: Carefully remove all items from the packaging and verify that all components are present.
- Connect Hardware: Connect the dual-microphone assembly to your computer using the provided cables. Ensure all connections are secure.
- Install Software: Install the 3M E-A-Rfit software on your computer. Follow the on-screen prompts during installation. Administrator privileges may be required.
- System Calibration: After software installation, perform any initial system calibration as prompted by the software. This ensures accurate measurements.
- Positioning: Place the microphone stand and assembly in a suitable testing environment, ensuring adequate space for the test subject.
Operating the System
The 3M E-A-Rfit Dual-Ear Validation System is designed for straightforward operation to assess hearing protector effectiveness.
- Launch Software: Open the 3M E-A-Rfit software application on your computer.
- Prepare Test Subject: Instruct the individual to properly wear their hearing protection device (earplugs or earmuffs) as they would during typical use.
- Position Subject: Position the test subject in front of the dual-microphone assembly according to the software's instructions. The system is designed to measure both ears simultaneously.
- Initiate Test: Follow the software prompts to begin the test. The system will emit a series of tones across the 7 standard frequencies (125, 250, 500, 1000, 2000, 4000, 8000 Hz) and measure sound levels.
- Review Results: The software will display the Personal Attenuation Rating (PAR) for each ear, along with a pass or fail indication. Results are typically generated in under five seconds.
- Save/Print Report: Save the test results electronically or print a detailed report for record-keeping and compliance purposes.
Figure 2: A worker undergoing a hearing protection fit test using the 3M E-A-Rfit Dual-Ear Validation System.
Maintenance
Proper maintenance ensures the longevity and accuracy of your 3M E-A-Rfit Dual-Ear Validation System.
- Cleaning: Gently wipe the exterior surfaces of the hardware components with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or solvents.
- Software Updates: Regularly check for and install software updates provided by 3M to ensure optimal performance and access to the latest features.
- Storage: Store the system components in a clean, dry environment when not in use to prevent damage.
- Cable Inspection: Periodically inspect all cables for signs of wear or damage. Replace any damaged cables immediately.
Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues with your 3M E-A-Rfit Dual-Ear Validation System, consider the following common troubleshooting steps:
- No Power/Connection: Ensure all power cables are securely connected and the system is receiving power. Verify USB or other data connections between the hardware and computer.
- Software Not Launching: Restart your computer. Ensure the software is installed correctly and meets system requirements. Try running the software as an administrator.
- Inaccurate Readings: Ensure the testing environment is quiet and free from excessive background noise. Verify that the test subject is properly positioned and wearing their hearing protection correctly. Re-run any calibration procedures if available in the software.
- Error Messages: Note any specific error messages displayed by the software and refer to the software's help documentation or 3M support for detailed solutions.
If problems persist, contact 3M technical support for assistance.
Specifications
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| Product Dimensions | 19 x 8 x 14.5 inches |
| Item Weight | 13.96 Pounds |
| Model Number | 56764-case |
| Manufacturer | 3M |
| Testing Frequencies | 125, 250, 500, 1000, 2000, 4000, 8000 Hz |
Warranty and Support
Legal Disclaimer:
3M industrial and occupational products are intended, labeled, and packaged for sale to trained industrial and occupational customers for workplace use. Unless specifically stated otherwise on the applicable product packaging or literature, these products are not intended, labeled, or packaged for sale to or use by consumers (e.g., for home, personal, primary or secondary school, recreational/sporting, or other uses not described in the applicable product packaging or literature), and must be selected and used in compliance with applicable health and safety regulations and standards (e.g., U.S. OSHA, ANSI), as well as all product literature, user instructions, warnings, and other limitations, and the user must take any action required under any recall, field action, or other product use notice. Misuse of 3M industrial and occupational products may result in injury, sickness, death, or property damage. For help with product selection and use, consult your on-site safety professional, industrial hygienist, or other subject matter expert.
Technical Support:
For additional product information, technical assistance, or support, please visit the official 3M website: