What is BS EN 13819‑1 about?
BS EN 13819‑1 is the first part in the multi-series of European standard documents on hearing protectors. BS EN 13819‑1 specifies physical test methods for hearing protectors. The purpose of these tests is to enable assessment of the performance of the hearing protector as specified in the appropriate product standard.
BS EN 13819‑1 specifies procedures for the testing of personal hearing protection devices in relation to Regulation (EU) 2016/425 - Personal Protective Equipment.
Who is BS EN 13819‑1 for?
BS EN 13819‑1 on test methods for hearing protectors is useful for:
- Hearing protector manufacturers
- Hearing protector parts and component manufacturers and suppliers
- Product designers
- Audiologists
- Healthcare practitioners
- Regulatory bodies
Why should you use BS EN 13819‑1?
Hearing protectors provide protection from damaging sounds to the ear. If someone is exposed to noise or sound levels that are close to or above the occupational exposure limits (OEL), then a hearing protector is highly beneficial.
BS EN 13819‑1 provides physical methods for testing hearing protectors. These tests enable the undertake accurate assessment of the performance of the hearing protectors with the necessary specimen, dimensions and testing conditions.
BS EN 13819‑1 specifies procedures for the testing of personal hearing protection devices which assists users in monitoring and controlling the quality of hearing protectors.
Overall, BS EN 13819‑1 uses test methods and procedures for monitoring, controlling that helps to increase the performance and quality of hearing protectors and ensuring optimum protection against hazardous noise and prevention of hearing loss. The right physical tests enhance the hearing protectors’ overall safety and resistance to damage
What is changed since the last update?
BS EN 13819‑1:2020 supersedes EN 13819-1:2002. BS EN 13819‑1:2020 includes some technical changes with respect to EN 13819-1:2002. These include:
- All figures revised and clarified where necessary, flowcharts for test procedures revised and additional ones added for single tests
- New definition 3.6 external vertical distance added. The limitation to industrial helmets eliminated, so that the test method can be applied to any carrier
- Clarification on testing schemes added to specify the tests to be carried out with the number of samples, clarification for flanged earplugs added
- Test head forms in 4.2.2.2 updated to EN 960:2006. Table 3 specifications on adjustability of mounted earmuffs changed