hearTest™ Occ Health similar to a single-wall soundproof booth

hearTest™ is a CE-certified, FDA registered digital audiometer that was launched in 2017. A study by Prof De Wet Swanepoel, hearX Group Founder and Scientific Advisor, evaluated the sound attenuation of the latest hearTest update. The hearTest Occupational Health solution, using RadioEar insert earphones covered by 3M Peltor ear defender, was released at the end of 2019.

The study aimed to compare the sound attenuation of the hearTest Occupational Health set up, configured with insert earphones covered by 3M Peltor ear defenders, to the permissible sound levels for screening audiometry in occupational health. The objectives were to:

1. Determine the average sound attenuation levels of the hearTest Occupational Health solution, and
2. Compare the hearTest Occupational Health solution’s attenuation and maximum permissible ambient noise levels (MPANLs) with industry-standard audiometry headphones and a competitor's occupational health audiometer.

Methodology

Data was collected inside a double-walled IAC audiometric booth. The study adhered to ANSI/ASA S3.1-1991 (R2018) and SANS 10182:2006 noise level standards. A calibrated GSI-61 diagnostic Type 1 clinical audiometer was used to obtain air-conduction thresholds. The study was conducted on 15 normal-hearing participants under three conditions, following a counterbalancing protocol:

1. No transducer condition,
2. hearTest insert earphones and ear defender; and
3. Competitor audiometer with insert earphones and earcups.

Results

No significant differences in attenuation were noted across all frequencies between the hearTest and competitor setup. The hearTest Occupational Health solution attenuation surpassed the requirements for ambient noise attenuation required for screening audiometry, (ISO/SANS 8253-1). In fact, the attenuation achieved was equivalent to a single-wall soundproof, making hearTest suitable for conducting hearing tests outside of a traditional booth. It also outperformed mobile sound booths, offering an accessible and cost-effective solution for onsite hearing testing and workplace hearing conservation programs.

To learn more, our full white paper study here.

Swanepoel, D. “Sound attenuation and permissible noise levels for hearTest™ occupational health audiometry”. White paper, hearX Group: July 2019.

For more information on hearTest Occupational Health please send us an email at info@hearxgroup.com or visit our website.

Last updated: 18 August 2025.