Audiometric Hearing Testing

OSHA Standard 1910.95:

• Mandates a Hearing Conservation Program for employees exposed to work-related noise equivalent to 85 dBA over an eight-hour TWA.

• Requires hearing protection for employees exposed to 90 dBA noise levels.

Audiometric Testing and Threshold Shift:

• Measures hearing loss with a standard threshold shift of 10 dBA or greater in either ear. exams for individuals returning to work after an injury or extended absence.

• Considers additional hearing loss below 10 dBA, indicating a temporary threshold shift.

Employee Referral and Follow-up:

• If hearing loss is not work-related, employees are referred to their primary care physician for follow-up treatment.

Employer Responsibilities

• Provide baseline and annual audiometric testing, hearing protection, and training at no cost to the employee.

• Preserve and protect remaining hearing through Hearing Conservation Programs.

Eliminate Hazardous Noise:

• Feasibly remove sources of hazardous noise exposure.

Sound Intensity and Frequency Control:

• Reduce loudness and intensity of sound (decibels) and frequency or pitch (hertz).

• Consider all physical properties of sound for a comprehensive approach.

Engineering Controls:

• Modify or replace noisy equipment.

• Make changes in the transmission path of noise.

Administrative Controls:

• Adjust employee work schedules to avoid excessive noise exposure.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):

• Provide and train employees in the use of PPE to safeguard their ears.

Education Programs:

• Educate employees on the importance of protecting themselves from damaging noise.

Workforce Well-being:

• Prioritizing the long-term hearing health of your employees.