When workers are exposed to excessive levels of noise, permanent hearing loss can occur. To reduce or eliminate loss of hearing, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) created requirements for employers to have a hearing conservation program, which includes audiogram testing and monitoring, record keeping and training for all employees who encounter high noise levels in the workplace.
Required Monitoring
According to OSHA, employers are required to monitor noise level exposure at or above 85 decibels (dB) over an eight- hour period. This is also known as "time-weighted average" (TWA). This monitoring should be conducted by qualified personnel using properly calibrated instrumentation. In work situations where TWA is 85dB or higher, hearing protection must be provided. Repeat monitoring is necessary any time workplace conditions change. Further monitoring may result in additional employees being included in the testing program, as well as changes in the hearing protection equipment.
Testing Requirements
OSHA requires employers to create and maintain an audiometric testing program that includes "a baseline audiogram, annual audiograms, training and follow-up procedures." Employers are required to provide at no cost to the worker audiometric testing for all employees working in high-noise environments. These tests must be conducted by a qualified technician. A baseline test gives both the employer and worker a reference point for future tests, while annual testing allows tracking of possible hearing loss. If an employee experiences hearing loss, or a "standard threshold shift" (STS), additional steps must be taken to improve hearing protection.
Employer Requirements After Testing
After the results of employee testing are examined, particularly if an STS has occurred, the employer must determine the best protective equipment, provide training to use it and make sure workers properly wear it. Employers are required to provide at least one type of earplug and one type of earmuff so workers can choose one that is most comfortable and fits best. These hearing protection devices are rated by the American National Standard Institute (ANSI) by what is called noise reduction rating (NRR). Employers use these ratings to determine the appropriate devices.
Training for employees includes explaining the potential effects of improper or nonexistent hearing protection; properly choose, fit and wear hearing protection; and the importance of regular audiometric testing.
Required Testing Records
All noise-monitoring measurements conducted in the workplace are required to be filed and maintained by the employer for at least two years from the date of the test. All audiometric test results on employees must be filed and maintained for the duration of a worker's employment. If any employee shows a loss of hearing during follow-up testing, employers are required to record this information, consult with medical personnel to determine if the hearing loss was job related and, if it was, record how hearing protection will be improved.
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